There are less than two days remaining in the transfer window, and Arsenal still have plenty to do in terms of outgoings, but one deal could progress further.
Albert Sambi Lokonga is not in Mikel Arteta’s plans, and he saw a mooted loan move to Burnley collapse earlier in the window.
There has been interest from a number of clubs, and Turkish side Galatasaray have now reportedly made a move to sign the 23-year-old.
According to journalist Burhan Can Terzi, the two clubs are set to meet today to discuss a move for the Belgian international. It is unclear whether this would be a loan or a permanent deal.
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“Galatasaray made an attempt for 23-year-old midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga from Arsenal. There will be a meeting tomorrow,” he claimed yesterday.
Lokonga could be tempted by Galatasaray
Despite his young age, and potential interest from Premier League sides, the ambition showed by Galatasaray this summer could perhaps tempt the midfielder into a move.
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The Turkish side have recruited a number of big names including his former Crystal Palace teammate Wilfried Zaha, Hakim Ziyech and Mauro Icardi amongst others, and as one of the biggest clubs in Turkey, Lokonga would not exactly be taking a backward step if he was to move there.
Although he has shown flashes of talent, Arsenal have moved past Lokonga, with his lack of intensity off the ball making him unsuitable cover for Thomas Partey or Declan Rice as a defensive midfielder, whilst there is such strong competition in the more attacking roles that he is unlikely to get any playing time at all this season.
He definitely needs to leave, and whilst a permanent transfer could be desirable this summer, there is merit in a dry loan. If he plays regularly, he can increase his value, and any potential interest in him, to attract a higher fee next summer.