Arsenal Accept £5m Loss on ‘Special’ Player After Arteta’s Approval

Arsenal Prepared to Accept £5m Loss on Albert Sambi Lokonga Following Mikel Arteta’s Approval for His Departure

Arsenal are set to make significant changes to their squad this summer, with several players likely to leave as Mikel Arteta aims to streamline his team.

Among those expected to depart is Albert Sambi Lokonga, a midfielder who has struggled to secure regular playing time at the Emirates Stadium.

In recent seasons, Arsenal have been pushing Manchester City for the Premier League title, continuously enhancing their squad with new talent.

This progression has naturally resulted in some players finding themselves on the fringes, unable to break into the first team.

To make room for further acquisitions and to bolster their finances, Arsenal are prepared to part ways with some of their current players.

This summer, Arteta and the club’s technical director Edu Gaspar are focused on offloading those deemed surplus to requirements.

Lokonga’s Expected Departure

Albert Sambi Lokonga, who joined Arsenal in 2021 for £18m, is one such player.

Despite being hailed as a “special” talent by Vincent Kompany, Lokonga has not lived up to expectations and has spent the last two seasons out on loan.

With limited opportunities at Arsenal, his exit seems imminent.

According to ABC, Arsenal are willing to accept a fee of €15m (£13m) for Lokonga, reflecting a £5m loss on their initial investment.

This decision underscores the club’s intent to prioritize squad efficiency over recouping transfer fees.

Sevilla’s Interest

Sevilla have emerged as potential suitors for Lokonga. However, the Spanish side is reportedly cautious about committing to a permanent deal.

Arsenal are open to an initial loan move but want Sevilla to include an obligation to buy at the end of the loan period.

Negotiations between the two clubs are ongoing, with discussions centered on the purchase fee.

Financial Implications

The sale of Lokonga and other fringe players could significantly boost Arteta’s transfer budget, allowing him to bring in new talent to further strengthen the squad.

Eddie Nketiah, another player who has struggled for game time, is also on the market with a reported asking price of £50m.

These potential sales highlight Arsenal’s strategic approach to managing their roster and finances.

Arteta has reportedly given his approval for Lokonga’s departure, marking a clear intent to refine his squad ahead of the new season.

The move is part of a broader effort to build a team capable of finally surpassing Manchester City and claiming the Premier League title.