Arsenal midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga has arrived in Germany for his medical with Hamburg, as per journalist Ryan Taylor.
The Belgium international has been deemed surplus to requirements by the Gunners. He is set to end his four-year association with the club before Monday’s transfer deadline.
The Gunners have already reached a verbal agreement with Hamburg for Lokonga’s sale for a ‘modest fee‘, and he has now reported for his medical at the Bundesliga outfit.
Arsenal set to part ways with Lokonga
The 25-year-old arrived at the Gunners with a glowing reputation from Belgian giants Anderlecht.
Lokonga made 78 appearances at his boyhood club and was named their captain on many occasions.
Despite this, he has been unable to make the grade at Arsenal. Right from the off, Lokonga struggled with his ball control and had the tendency to lose possession in key phases.
The Belgian has had loan stints with Crystal Palace, Luton Town and Sevilla, where he has also struggled to find consistency due to his inability to stay fit over a long run of games.
Lokonga now has the chance to revive his playing career in the German top flight with Hamburg. The club have returned to the Bundesliga this season after a seven-year absence.
They will undoubtedly face a stern challenge to avoid relegation, and Lokonga has the opportunity to build his reputation again by helping them steer clear of the drop zone.
Arsenal could benefit from his progress in the long term. We believe the club could include a high sell-on clause to capitalise if Lokonga pursues a bigger challenge in the future.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com