One of the Arsenal midfielders not included in manager Mikel Arteta’s future plans is seeking to depart the club during the upcoming summer transfer window.
The Gunners are poised for a transformation following this season, which will involve a midfield overhaul due to the anticipated exits of both Jorginho and Thomas Partey.
Another midfielder potentially on the move this summer is Albert Sambi Lokonga.
As reported by Caught Offside sources, the Belgian midfielder aims to secure a permanent transfer to Sevilla at the conclusion of the season.
The 25-year-old is eager to extend his time in La Liga, a league where he believes he can excel further.
Previously, Sevilla and Arsenal had reached an agreement for a purchase option set at €12 million. However, Sevilla is contemplating renegotiating this fee, considering Lokonga has only one year remaining on his contract with Arsenal.
Lokonga has expressed that he feels in peak condition at Sevilla since his departure from Anderlecht and wishes to remain with the club.
Given his exclusion from Arteta’s long-term plans, the likelihood of Lokonga being transferred at a reasonable price has increased.
Albert Sambi Lokonga is keen on leaving Arsenal
In conversation with RTBF, the midfielder expressed his liking for the Spanish league.
“Spain is something I’ve always wanted. So today, being at Sevilla is really an opportunity that I have to respect and take seriously. I think I’m in a league that suits me, with a team that suits me. So, it’s up to me to make the difference,” he said.
“I want to stay here, and I think this is a club where I can settle in for the long term by staying for three or four years and then maybe try to find another challenge. But I’m certainly fulfilled here.”
Lokonga’s impressive display in Seville has garnered interest not only from his current team but also from several prominent Spanish clubs.
Real Betis, Villarreal, and Atletico Madrid are monitoring the progress of the Belgian midfielder closely.
Should Sevilla be unable to secure a permanent transfer for Lokonga, it is understood that these clubs are preparing to submit bids exceeding €10 million for the player.
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