Albert Sambi Lokonga’s future depends on Sevilla’s bargain search

Sevilla are playing hardball in their pursuit of Albert Sambi Lokonga, insisting on a permanent transfer from Arsenal only if the price drops sharply, per Spanish outlet Estadio Deportivo.

The Belgian midfielder’s current buyout clause sits at €12m, but Sevilla’s willingness to splash cash remains a mystery. Arsenal, meanwhile, have no room for the 25-year-old in their squad and will look to offload him elsewhere if this deal stalls.

Lokonga has settled into life in La Liga, clocking 17 appearances for Sevilla and making no secret of his desire to stay put. “I’ve found a good rhythm here,” he said, reflecting on his stint. “I’d love to keep building with this team.”

His journey to this point includes stints with Belgium’s youth sides U-17, U-19, and U-21 before earning a senior cap in a 5-2 World Cup qualifier win over Estonia in September 2021, subbing in for Eden Hazard. Born in Verviers, Belgium, with Congolese roots, Lokonga’s next chapter now rests on Sevilla’s bargaining skills or Arsenal’s patience running thin.