Journalist Kaya Kaynak has shared what some at Luton Town have told him about the idea of signing Albert Sambi Lokonga permanently from Arsenal during the summer transfer window.
With one game remaining in the campaign, it would appear that Rob Edwards’ side will indeed be relegated and make an immediate return to the Championship.
However, that does not tell the full story of how impressive the Hatters have been since being promoted to the Premier League last season.
And one of their standout performers has been Arsenal loanee Albert Sambi Lokonga, with the midfielder moving to Kenilworth Road after a mixed spell at Crystal Palace.
Luton would have loved to have signed Albert Sambi Lokonga
Lokonga took some time to get going at Luton, and there was even talk that Luton may terminate Lokonga’s loan heading into the January transfer window, but he proved to be an outstanding addition for the side.
In fact, writing in a Q&A with Football London, Kaynak suggested that Luton would have really liked to have kept Lokonga had their season ended differently.
“I think he’s been superb for Luton this season, but sadly I don’t see his future in north London,” he said. “He’ll have two years left on his contract this summer, and Arsenal will look to sell. Luton’s relegation sadly means they won’t be able to afford to keep him even though people at that club have told me they’d love to.”
Arsenal actually face dilemma over midfielder’s future this summer
It is good news for Arsenal that Lokonga has managed to prove to be a success during his time away on loan, even if he is still facing a fight to prove himself at Arsenal.
Arsenal spent £17 million on Lokonga when they signed him from Anderlecht, and there have been times where it appeared that they may struggle to recoup that fee.
Perhaps it may still be too soon to expect a profit this summer, but his stock has certainly risen during his time with Luton, and there may be plenty of takers for him over the coming months.
Kaynak went on to suggest that a loan move may make most sense, and you can understand why if he can secure a move to a team not fighting relegation next year.
