Arsenal are set to make several sales this summer, and will aim to raise transfer funds through the departures of a number of fringe players.
Mikel Arteta loaned out some of the players who were struggling for game time in recent seasons, including left-back Kieran Tierney, and most of these now look set to leave.
Midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga is another who could depart, and he has now confirmed that his intention is to leave the club this summer.
Lokonga impressed at times in a season-long loan at Luton Town, and could generate some interest from within the Premier League over a permanent move.
Albert Sambi Lokonga reveals Arsenal stance over his future
Speaking to BBC Three Counties Radio, Lokonga revealed that he had spoken to Arsenal over his future, and the club expect him to depart permanently this summer.
“For me, I had a discussion with Arsenal and the conclusion was the best thing for me was to leave the club, so now it’s up to my agent and the club to find something. I still have a contact there, one year plus a one year option so let’s see what happens,” he stated.
“The love I had received has been amazing, it’s been unbelievable and I’ve never seen this kind of support. I will be back here for sure.
“If I’m not playing for Luton I will come for sure to see the guys because I think this was the best decision of my life to come here, to play for this club and I thank Rob (Edwards) for inviting me to join him and be on this journey.”
Albert Sambi Lokonga could succeed away from Arsenal
It is clear that Lokonga’s future lies away from Arsenal. He did not have the defensive intensity needed to succeed as a number six under Arteta, and competition is too fierce in the midfield for him to gain any opportunities if he stays.
Lokonga joined Arsenal for £15m in 2021, but despite showing occasional glimpses of his talent, he struggled for the most part.
However, if he was to move to another club lower down the Premier League table, and maintain his fitness, he does have the talent to develop into a solid player at that level.
His loan spell showed that at his best, he is tidy on the ball and can offer a lot as a central midfielder in this regard, but is still some way off the level required in this title-challenging Arsenal side.