Arsenal have been extremely active in the summer transfer window, and while they are keen on signing multiple players, there are a few names that may leave the club this season.
Right after the last Premier League game, Mikel Arteta shared the names of four players who were at the top of the departure list from North London. However, the new player getting added to this list is Albert Sambi Lokonga.
The 25-year-old midfielder's future is in uncertainty as he has admitted that he wants to sign a permanent contract with Sevilla FC after spending a season on loan in the La Liga.
Arsenal have triggered the additional year option in his current contract, hence keeping him at the club until 2026. The Gunners are fine with the midfielder moving on, but they are not willing to leave him for free.
Sambi Lokonga featured in 23 matches for Sevilla last season. Initially, he was given a first-team role, but he saw his gametime cut down due to persistent hamstring problems.
The Belgian midfielder will now return to North London as he is a contracted player and may likely join the club for pre-season if he fails to sort out his future in the next few weeks.
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Overall, there's a high possibility of him leaving Emirates this season permanently as the Gunners are closing in on officially announcing Martin Zubimendi.
What did Sambi Lokonga say about joining Sevilla?
Sambi Lokonga joined Arsenal in 2021 from Anderlecht for £17.2 million transfer fee. However, the Belgian midfielder never really managed to cement his potential or showcase his talents, for which Arteta brought him to North London.
Therefore, he had loan spells with Crystal Palace, Luton Town and recently with Sevilla. Interestingly, he has only featured in 39 matches for the Gunners.
Recently, in an interview with Spanish outlet AS, Sambi Lokonga has admitted his interest in continuing with Sevilla. But he is unsure if the La Liga outfit can afford him.
“I don’t know what my future will be. But if Sevilla can afford it, I want to stay here,” Sambi 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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