Arsenal are determined to part ways with Albert Sambi Lokonga this summer, and Trabzonspor may provide the solution. The Belgian midfielder is no longer considered part of Mikel Arteta’s long-term plans, with the club prioritising outgoings after a heavy investment in new signings during the current window.
Lokonga has struggled to establish himself at the Emirates since his arrival, spending much of the past few seasons out on loan. His most recent spell came at Sevilla, but injuries disrupted his campaign and prevented him from making the sustained impact that might have encouraged the Spanish club to pursue a permanent deal. With opportunities at Arsenal limited, he must now seek a new permanent home.
Trabzonspor Show Strongest Interest
Several clubs are understood to have shown interest in Lokonga, yet Trabzonspor appear to be leading the race for his signature. According to The Sun, the Turkish club is keen to secure a deal and may look to advance discussions before the European transfer deadline. Importantly, the Turkish window closes later than most across the continent, giving both parties more time to negotiate an agreement.
For Arsenal, the priority is to streamline the squad and reduce numbers in midfield, where recent signings have pushed Lokonga further down the pecking order. His departure would not only free up space but also ease the wage bill as the club prepares for a demanding season across multiple competitions.
A Necessary Departure
Lokonga’s situation reflects the competitive nature of Arsenal’s current squad, with Arteta building a side designed to challenge for major honours. While the Belgian has shown glimpses of his quality, the consistency required at the highest level has eluded him, and the club are now ready to move on.
The coming days will be decisive, as Arsenal push to finalise outgoings before the deadline. With Trabzonspor’s interest concrete and additional time available due to the extended Turkish window, Lokonga’s future could soon be resolved. For both player and club, a move away now appears the best outcome.
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We won’t get much for him if a Turkish club is involved
The problem Arsenal has with all the players they want to sell this summer is that “interest”, so far anyway, is all that’s shown. There hasn’t been an actual bid reported for any of them.
No doubt Berta is working hard behind the scenes to change all that interest into something more tangible, although I suspect it probably won’t be easy.
Arsenal’s poor recent history regarding moving players on is a serious thorn in their side. Clubs have been playing Arsenal for years now, knowing the need for them to clear some players.
They either wait towards the end of the window, when they know the price may drop. Or they do what several teams have done, and just take said player on loan.
Until Arsenal start moving players on quicker, this is going to be a rinse and repeat season after season.
As good a job as Berta has done regarding the purchasing of players, I fear he’s going to have to be a Magician to get the true value for any of the said players that the club want to move on.
So I’ll give Berta a helping hand, as Sooty would say with his magic wand. IZZY WIZZY LETS GET BUSY. OOPS! I’ve showed my age there. 🤣😂👍
Derek
Sooty’s magic wand … !!! 😂
Whatever happened to Harry Corbett? Did you know, by the way, that the Steptoe and Son actor, Harry H Corbett, added the “H” to avoid being confused with Sooty’s creator.
Bertie,
Thank you for educating me, I was unaware of your fact. But as the saying goes, every day is a school day. 👍