Atletico Madrid have entered the race to sign Arsenal midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga, who is currently on loan with Spanish club Sevilla.
The Belgium international was deemed surplus to requirements last summer. He was sent out on loan to Sevilla with an option to buy for £10 million.
Three hamstring injuries have disrupted Lokonga’s campaign, and Vamos Mi Sevilla claims Sevilla are eyeing a discount on the clause.
Arsenal seem willing to negotiate with just one more year left on his contract, but Sevilla may need to be wary of interest from other top Spanish clubs.
Atletico, Villarreal and Real Betis are ‘willing to bid’ for the Anderlecht graduate.
Sevilla sporting director Victor Orta may reportedly have to act quickly amid the increasing interest.
Arsenal poised to offload Lokonga this summer
Lokonga joined the Gunners with a good reputation from Anderlecht. There were suggestions that he would provide quality back-up to Thomas Partey.
However, his career has not gone as planned. Lokonga failed to meet expectations under manager Mikel Arteta. He could find another permanent club this year.
Sevilla are right to be cautious with Lokonga. The 25-year-old has picked up four separate hamstring injuries since last season. One of those was while on loan at Luton Town.
The Andalusian outfit are eyeing a discount for the ‘all-action‘ midfielder, but Arsenal should not accept a significant reduction, considering the interest from Atletico.
Atletico are one of the biggest spenders in Spain. The Madrid giants could be willing to pay a higher fee than Sevilla, who are in a tight financial situation due to the lack of European football revenue.
Simeone could eye a reunion with Partey whose Arsenal contract expires on June 30. It is unclear whether Atletico will consider signing Lokonga if the Ghanaian returns to the club on a free.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com.
