Arsenal have officially exercised the option to extend Albert Sambi Lokonga’s contract by an additional year, securing the midfielder’s services until the summer of 2026.
The club’s move signals an intent to maintain leverage over the player’s future as transfer interest grows ahead of the summer window.
Lokonga, born in Belgium to Congolese parents, has spent the current season on loan at La Liga side Sevilla.
His development has attracted attention across Europe, but with Arsenal activating the extension clause, any potential suitor will now have to negotiate directly with the North London club.
The extension follows a recent meeting between Lokonga’s representatives and newly appointed Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta, during which the club confirmed the decision to trigger the contractual clause.
While this keeps the 25-year-old on Arsenal’s books, it does not necessarily indicate a long-term stay in Mikel Arteta’s plans.
Lokonga is said to be assessing his next steps carefully, with playing time and career stability his top priorities.
Despite showing flashes of promise since arriving from Anderlecht in 2021, he has found regular minutes hard to come by at the Emirates, resulting in loan spells at Crystal Palace and Sevilla.
His performances in Spain have bolstered his value and prompted speculation about a permanent move away from Arsenal.
The Gunners, however, appear keen to retain control of his immediate future, either to integrate him back into the squad or to command a fee should he be sold.
