Premier League newcomers Luton Town have now made a loan bid for Arsenal midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga, and the player now has a decision to make.
The 23-year-old is not in Mikel Arteta’s plans for this season, and was previously linked with a loan move to Burnley before a proposed move failed to materialise.
Lokonga spent the second half of last season on loan at Crystal Palace, where he started brightly before the sacking of Patrick Vieira meant he lost his place in the side.
Journalist Mike McGrath has now revealed the news of the bid, and indicated that the player’s preference will play a part in the move.
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“Arsenal midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga subject of a loan bid from Luton. Belgium midfielder to decide on the move,” he tweeted.
Should Lokonga go to Luton?
It is clear that Lokonga needs to leave, at least on loan, for his own sake, as he is unlikely to feature at all if he stays at Arsenal.
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Moving to Luton will give him the chance to play regularly in the Premier League, and if it is a straight loan, he can increase his value ahead of a potential move next summer.
Lokonga showed flashes of promise when he first joined in 2021, with Arsenal legend Michael Thomas even calling him “talented,” but his lack of intensity off the ball meant he could not provide adequate cover in a defensive midfield role.
A move to Luton means he does not have to move far, and he could settle in quickly at Rob Edwards’ side. There is plenty to be gained for all parties if he does choose to go there, and a deadline day move now appears inevitable.