DONE DEAL: “Mikel Arteta Approval Is All That Is Left” As Sevilla Agree a £3 million loan deal for the 24-year-old Arsenal midfielder

Sevilla, a La Liga team, have reached personal terms with an Arsenal midfielder as they aim to complete a deal with the Gunners. Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s manager, might permit the departure of several first-team players this summer as part of a minor squad revamp. Last season, Arteta had a reliable starting eleven, leaving many players sidelined without significant playing time or responsibility.

A notable example is Aaron Ramsdale, whose position is threatened by the arrival of David Raya. As a result, Ramsdale is expected to leave Arsenal in search of a first-team role elsewhere. Arsenal, in turn, are reportedly already seeking Ramsdale’s replacement.

The players potentially deemed unnecessary for the upcoming season include those who were loaned out previously. Among them is Albert Sambi Lokonga, signed by Arteta for £17 million in 2021.

Lokonga spent last season on loan at Luton Town, where he performed exceptionally well when fit. Returning to Arsenal, it appears Lokonga is set for another loan move after agreeing to personal terms with Sevilla for the 2024/25 season.

According to the Spanish outlet Penalty, Lokonga has agreed to join Sevilla, who are willing to pay a €3 million loan fee. The main hurdle in the deal is Arsenal’s desire to include a mandatory purchase option, whereas Sevilla prefers it to be optional.

Journalist Maximo de la Cruz Ramirez, recently cited by Fabrizio Romano, reported this on X, stating: “Agreement between Sevilla and Lokonga. Sevilla FC and Belgian player Albert Sambi Lokonga have agreed on the transfer. Sevilla FC will pay €3m, but now they are negotiating with Arsenal over the purchase option.”

Should Arsenal finalize the deal with Sevilla, fan opinions might be divided. Some supporters will be pleased that Lokonga will gain regular playing time, potentially leading to a transfer fee covering Arsenal’s initial investment in 2021.

Others might feel that Arsenal, in need of a new midfielder this summer, already possess a promising 24-year-old in Lokonga. Meanwhile, Arsenal are reportedly in talks with Barcelona to sign a defender currently participating in Euro 2024.