Albert Sambi Lokonga appears to be finding his stride at Sevilla, where he is currently on loan from Arsenal. After joining Arsenal with high expectations as one of Belgium’s top young talents, Lokonga struggled to make a significant impact under Mikel Arteta, despite the manager’s support. His time at the Emirates was punctuated by loan spells, and now, in his third loan stint, he seems to have settled in well in La Liga, where his performances are drawing positive attention.
Arsenal initially included a purchase option in Lokonga’s loan agreement with Sevilla, reportedly worth around €12 million, indicating their openness to a permanent transfer. For Arsenal, this could be an ideal outcome, as Lokonga no longer appears to fit into Arteta’s long-term plans. Sevilla, impressed by Lokonga’s contributions, has also expressed interest in securing him on a full-time basis. However, reports from Vamos Mi Sevilla FC suggest the Spanish club is now hesitant to meet the €12 million price tag, especially considering Lokonga’s contract with Arsenal expires in 2026. Sevilla is reportedly exploring the possibility of negotiating a reduced transfer fee, potentially leveraging Lokonga’s playing time and Arsenal’s willingness to part with him.
If Sevilla manages to persuade Lokonga to pressure Arsenal for a lower fee, it could create an interesting situation for the Gunners. With Lokonga not in their future plans, Arsenal may find themselves inclined to compromise rather than risk retaining a player whose value could decline further as his contract approaches its end. However, if Sevilla pushes too aggressively, Arsenal could opt to seek other suitors for Lokonga, especially if he continues to perform well in La Liga. This delicate balance may ultimately shape Lokonga’s future, as both clubs assess their priorities and bargaining power in the months leading up to the transfer window.
ADMIN COMMENT
So here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….
You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.
CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, please contact us through this link…
Another club seeking to lowball, taking notes from the Italian league; over value their own, under value every one else.
Perhaps lower it to 10 million, and add on a hefty sell on fee. IMO any lower evaluation must be accompanied by a hefty sell-on fee commensurate with the reduced price.
I’m surprised that you’re critical of clubs wanting to get the best deal that they can. Football is big business so that’s what any club should at least try to do. Sometimes it works, sometimes not. It would, presumably, be acceptable if Arsenal was in Sevilla’s place – so why not the other way around?
I’m sure JA would be inundated with negative posts if Edu/Arsenal just paid up in every transfer situation regardless of whether there was any potential leeway or not.
It’s potentially tricky for Arsenal as they don’t want him back. Sevilla is, at least, a “known admirer” (on his current form, so let’s hope that doesn’t drop) and it’s not certain that there will be others.
I think some sort of compromise – perhaps lower fee + sell-on clause as has been mentioned – may well be worked out as Lokonga staying where he still remains the best option for both clubs and the player.