Romano gives Arsenal update on 'PLAN B' midfielder

FT Desk

26 Aug 2023 07:20 CDT
3 min read

Mikel Arteta and the Arsenal badge on a red and black abstract background — © ProShots

Arsenal will have to wait a little longer to find out whether they can offload an unwanted piece in midfield.

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Albert Sambi Lokonga is surplus to requirements at the Emirates Stadium this summer and will not play a part in Mikel Arteta's plans for 2023-24.

As a result, Arsenal are looking for a new club for the 23-year-old, who is currently training alongside fellow outsiders Nicolas Pepe and Nuno Tavares away from the main squad.

MORE: Arsenal get one over on Spurs with latest transfer

Brighton had emerged as a possible destination following the collapse of a prospective move to Burnley, as the Seagulls look to add further midfield depth.

But it is clear that Sambi Lokonga is far from a priority in the race to fill the gaps left by Alexis Mac Allister and Moises Caicedo's sales this summer.

Brighton move for Lille youngster

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano affirms that Carlos Baleba, Lille's 19-year-old midfield promise, remains the top target for the south coast club.

"Brighton have sent new bid to Lille in the last 48 hours, waiting for final outcome and decision soon," Romano signalled on Twitter.

"Sambi Lokonga remains the plan B, but Brighton want to get Baleba deal done."

© ProShots - The youngster has struggled for first-team football as of late

The Belgium international moved to Arsenal from Anderlecht in 2021 and immediately broke into the first team, making 24 appearances in all competitions over the course of the 2021-22 season.

The following campaign, though, saw Sambi Lokonga utilised less frequently by Arteta, culminating in the decision to farm him out on loan to Crystal Palace in January.