REPORT: Transfer Move For Arsenal Fringe Player Seemingly Hits Rocks

REPORT: Transfer Move For Arsenal Fringe Player Seemingly Hits Rocks

Burnley’s move to sign Arsenal midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga could be in jeopardy, as reports emerge that the two parties have failed to agree contract terms [via Sacha Tavolieri on Twitter].

While the deal for Lokonga to move to Turf Moor has not completely fizzled out, it has become ‘more complicated’ as the player and the club continue their struggle to find mutually agreeable terms.


In Tavolieri’s tweet, he wrote: “While discussions on loan deal with mandatory option were fluid with Arsenal… Been told Sambi Lokonga’s side meeting with Burnley FC about personal terms didn’t met expectations and that it’s now more complicated than expected. Also the reason why it’s been so quiet since the 2nd of August.

“AS Monaco (who was on the player even before his transfer to AFC) still got an interest for the Belgian midfielder and took information recently but nothing concrete so far. To be continued towards the end of the window.”

Who else, besides Burnley, are interested in a move for Albert Sambi Lokonga?

As per Tavolieri’s tweet, AS Monaco are also interested in a move for Lokonga. If this is the case, Burnley may see themselves priced out of a move – Monaco are currently one of Europe’s richest football clubs.

Burnley and Monaco aren’t the only clubs who have been linked with a move for Lokonga, however. Sevilla are also believed to be interested in the player, but they have yet to submit an official transfer offer.

Does Albert Sambi Lokonga have a place in the Arsenal team?

Currently, it is difficult to see where Lokonga would fit into the current Arsenal setup. While he should be able to slot in stylistically, there are several players of a higher quality ahead of him in the pecking order.

Moverover, during his loan spell at Crystal Palace last season, Lokonga was distinctly unimpressive, as he made just 9 appearances for the Eagles. During this time, he failed to score a goal or register an assist.

His time at Palace will have done little to convince the Arsenal hierarchy that he is worthy of a place in the Gunners’ squad – especially ahead of players such as Martin Odegaard, Declan Rice and Kai Havertz.

Jimmy Johnson

Jimmy Johnson

I have worked for NationalWorld since August 2021 - before then, I was a freelance journalist, writing for numerous publications. From 2023, I have been a part of the ever-growing NationalWorld Sports Network.