Albert Sambi Lokonga
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Arsenal midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga is close to finalising a permanent transfer to Bundesliga side Hamburger SV after completing a medical examination, according to Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg.
The 25-year-old Belgian international, who has struggled to secure a consistent role at Arsenal, is expected to bring an end to his four-year stay in North London as the summer transfer window draws to a close.
Plettenberg reported that Lokonga underwent medical tests in Hamburg on Sunday, with the final results expected by Monday morning before an official announcement. Journalist Ryan Taylor described the deal as being for a “modest fee,” with Arsenal likely to include a significant sell-on clause to benefit from any future move.
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Lokonga joined Arsenal from Anderlecht in 2021 for £17.2 million and made 24 appearances in his debut season. However, he failed to establish himself as a regular under Mikel Arteta and was subsequently sent out on loan to Crystal Palace, Luton Town, and Sevilla. His most recent spell in La Liga was disrupted by recurring hamstring injuries, limiting him to 22 appearances.
🚨 JUST IN from @Plettigoal:
Albert Sambi Lokonga has completed his medical at Hamburger SV. Results expected tomorrow morning. 🇧🇪 pic.twitter.com/ozos0BzEXr
— Eduardo Hagn (@EduardoHagn) August 31, 2025
Newly promoted Hamburg view Lokonga as a crucial reinforcement in their bid to remain in the Bundesliga. With midfielders Nicolas Capaldo and Nicolai Remberg struggling for form, head coach Merlin Polzin is banking on Lokonga’s versatility to strengthen the spine of his team.
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The move also forms part of Arsenal’s wider squad overhaul, as Arteta looks to streamline his options before the deadline.
Lokonga, who has made 51 Premier League appearances across his time with Arsenal, Palace, and Luton, also has two caps for Belgium. Speaking earlier this year, he underlined his need for stability after a series of loan spells.
“I need a club where I can stay for two or three years, to play and develop again,” he told Standard Sport.
With Hamburg eager to integrate him quickly, Lokonga now has the chance to revive his career and establish himself in Germany’s top flight.
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