Arsenal star: 'The best solution for me is to leave'

Tom Weber

Updated: 27 May 2024 20:13 BST
3 min read

Arsenal midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga has revealed that he has been told he has no future at the club.

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The Belgian has struggled to carve out his place in north London and spent the bygone campaign on loan at Luton Town. Despite his previous Premier League struggles, the 24-year-old felt right at home in the Hatters' midfield and won himself plenty of plaudits.

The season ultimately ended in relegation after a valiant effort from the underdogs and the conclusion of the campaign has now thrown up questions over Lokonga's future.

While some had perhaps thought that the loanee could have a role to play at Arsenal next season, this appears to not be the case. Instead, his loan has only helped the Belgian to increase his transfer value ahead of a departure from the Emirates.

Lokonga told to leave

The player himself has now quite openly addressed the speculation surrounding his future and publically admitted that he has been told that he has no future at Arsenal prior to what will be a big summer not just for him but also for the Gunners.

“I think that [my time at Arsenal] is slowly coming to an end,” Lokonga told Belgian outlet VOO Sport. "I had a discussion with the club and what was said is that the best solution for me was to leave. I have a one-year contract plus a one-year option, so now it's up to the club and my agent to find the best solution.”

Lokonga arrived at Arsenal from Anderlecht for €17.5 million in 2021 and has, to date, featured 39 times for Arsenal. Last season, the 24-year-old impressed at Luton but was restricted to just 19 appearances due to several fitness issues. He notched three assists and scored once in the Premier League for the Hatters.