Arsenal midfielder agrees personal terms with Sevilla

Arsenal midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga has reportedly agreed personal terms with Sevilla for a loan move for the 2024-25 season.

The 24-year-old Belgian is seeking more playing time and development opportunities after struggling to secure a regular starting position under Mikel Arteta.

According to a report from Spain, the loan deal also includes an option to buy at the end of the season, allowing Sevilla to make the move permanent if Lokonga meets their expectations. The journalist believes this arrangement benefits both clubs as it offers Arsenal a chance to further develop their player while giving Sevilla access to an emerging talent.

Earlier, and perhaps more reliable, reports, however, claim Arsenal want an obligation to buy not an option. They want to sell Lokonga permanently rather than stick with him any longer.

Those earlier reports state that negotiations between Arsenal and Sevilla are at an advanced stage, but the two clubs are still discussing the terms of the purchase clause, with Arsenal pushing for the aforementioned mandatory buy clause set at €12m (£10.2m), with Sevilla preferring an option to buy.

Lokonga, who joined Arsenal in 2021 from Anderlecht, has shown flashes of his potential but has faced stiff competition in midfield. A move to La Liga with Sevilla could provide him with the consistent playing time he needs to further his development.

Last season, Lokonga’s loan to Luton Town was hampered by injuries, but he managed to regain his place in the team towards the end of the campaign, making five consecutive starts and delivering some strong performances. With little prospect at Arsenal, he has expressed his desire to leave the club for more regular opportunities.

The proposed loan to Sevilla seems like a suitable solution for all parties involved. It allows Lokonga to play regularly in a competitive league, gives Sevilla a promising talent, and offers Arsenal the chance to recoup some of their initial investment in the player.

Lokonga still has two years left on his current Arsenal contract and is valued at around €15m.