Arsenal - Kai Havertz
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Arsenal could be edging closer to a welcome transfer windfall this summer, but complications remain over the future of midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga. The Belgian spent the 2023–24 season on loan at Sevilla, making 23 appearances across all competitions, but his long-term future remains unresolved.
As the Gunners prepare for what is expected to be a big-spending summer in their bid to close the gap on Premier League champions Liverpool, the need to balance spending with outgoings is more important than ever. Financial Fair Play and the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules mean that high spending without significant sales can lead to long-term financial issues.
Mikel Arteta is under pressure to deliver silverware after years of heavy investment, and while the club is preparing to back him again, Arsenal’s ability to sell players like Lokonga could be key to maintaining financial stability.
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Lokonga, signed from Anderlecht for around £17 million in 2021, has struggled to make a lasting impact at the Emirates and has since had loan spells away from the club. Now 25, he appears unlikely to feature in Arteta’s future plans, and a permanent departure seems inevitable.
Albert Sambi Lokonga
Albert Sambi Lokonga (Image credit: Getty Images)
Sevilla hold an option to buy the midfielder for just under £10.1 million, but a chaotic season for the Spanish club has thrown that option into doubt. A disappointing campaign led to fan protests and a shake-up behind the scenes, with former Leeds United sporting director Victor Orta already dismissed.
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Arsenal have reportedly exercised a unilateral option to extend Lokonga’s contract by a year—a move likely aimed at protecting the player’s market value. Sevilla now have just under a month to activate their purchase clause, or the midfielder will return to London.
Speaking last month, Lokonga expressed a desire to stay in Spain but acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding his future.
“I don’t know what my future will be. But if Sevilla can afford it, I want to stay here,” Lokonga said. “But there are many things I can’t decide. I have a one-year contract with Arsenal and all options are open.
“I’ve said it often—I want to defend this badge. Now there are many things coming up that I can’t choose. The situation with Arsenal, the money Arsenal will ask for, Sevilla’s situation and whether they can pay Arsenal, my contract… There are many things I can’t decide anymore.”
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