Arsenal have been inactive in the transfer window so far, but there could be movement soon as one player is nearing the exit door.
Several Arsenal players spent the season out on loan with mixed results. Kieran Tierney continued to struggle with injury at Real Sociedad, whilst Nuno Tavares failed to impress at Nottingham Forest.
One success story was that of Albert Sambi Lokonga, who caught the eye at Luton Town despite their relegation from the Premier League.
The Belgian did struggle with injury, but was one of their top performers when fit, and this has helped Lokonga earn a better move.
The 24-year-old recently revealed that both he and Arsenal agreed that he should leave this summer, and La Liga side Sevilla are now closing in on a move.
Sevilla close to signing Albert Sambi Lokonga from Arsenal
Sevilla, whom Arsenal beat in the Champions League group stage in October and November, now appear close to signing Lokonga.
Spanish journalist Mario Mijenz has now revealed that Sevilla are confident that they will be able to sign the midfielder.
“Sambi Lokonga is getting closer to Sevilla FC,” he stated.
“There is still no agreement but the club is very optimistic that he will be a Sevilla player next season.”
Will Albert Sambi Lokonga leave Arsenal on loan or permanently?
In recent days it has been reported that Lokonga’s potential move to Sevilla will be a loan deal, despite Arsenal wanting a permanent fee for him.
Sevilla struggled last season, and failed to qualify for European football. Financially, they are unable to offer a significant fee.
However, there is merit in another loan for Lokonga. If he excels at a huge club in Sevilla, his profile could grow, and attract a bigger fee next year than what may be offered for him now.
There is the risk that a poor, or injury-stricken loan could tank Lokonga’s value, but if any fee offered now is significantly less than the £15m Arsenal paid to sign him in 2021, then another straight loan is a deal Mikel Arteta may have to accept.