Arsenal fans have been debating their views about the future of one player who is seemingly no longer in Mikel Arteta’s plans.
Arsenal will have to trim their squad this summer.
Between those who have fallen down the pecking order at the Emirates Stadium, and those who spent this season out on loan, there are plenty of Arsenal stars who are likely to move on in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Albert Sambi Lokonga is one of those who is likely to depart.
The Gunners paid £17 million to secure the services of the midfielder in the summer of 2021. The Belgian arrived in North London short of elite level experience but with plenty of potential.
Mikel Arteta showed a great deal of faith in the 24-year-old in his first season at the club. Lokonga made 24 appearances across all competitions, but was inconsistent at best and was often bypassed by matches.
He fell out of favour somewhat last season, and a brief loan stint with Crystal Palace did little to enhance his reputation.
Lokonga spent this season on loan with Luton Town, and was regularly able to impress for the Hatters, in between stints on the sideline with injury.
Mikel Arteta ready to let Albert Sambi Lokonga leave Arsenal
Although Luton Town ultimately succumbed to relegation, Lokonga clearly enjoyed his time at Kenilworth Road. As reported by Luton Today, the once-capped Belgium international said he had “loved everything” about his time at the club.
It was also revealed that Arsenal and Lokonga have agreed that the best next step for all involved would be for the player to move on this summer. The Gunners will want to fetch a fee for Lokonga, and usher him out of the club on a permanent basis.
Despite his encouraging performances for Luton, Lokonga has clearly not done enough to convince Arteta that he can contribute for the Gunners next season. Lokonga also had minimal contact with Arteta throughout his loan spell, suggesting that there isn’t much of a relationship between the pair.
Arsenal will look to add to their midfield contingent this summer.
Arsenal fans debate Albert Sambi Lokonga future
Some Arsenal fans would be comfortable seeing Lokonga leave the club.
One supporter said: “100% sell … I do like him, however he showed clearly, when given chance, that he dont have the confidence and believe to play for Arsenal!”
Another added: “Sell He can’t bench anybody in that midfield.”
One fan agreed, stating: “Sell. We need to up the standards to keep competitive, not cater to the stragglers.”
However, there are Arsenal supporters who believe that Lokonga still has something to offer.
One said: “Keep! We need depth there and he’s had a full season playing a lot of minutes. I think he’s more valuable to us in the squad than whatever fee we might be able to get.”
One even claimed that: “He should be replacing Partey.”
Another chipped in with: “We need him this season.”