Arsenal star confirms pre-season withdrawal due to injury amid transfer uncertainty
Arsenal midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga has revealed that he will not be joining the team for their pre-season tour in Germany due to a muscular injury. The 23-year-old's future at the Emirates Stadium remains uncertain as he has fallen down the pecking order under manager Mikel Arteta.
Lokonga spent the second half of last season on loan at Crystal Palace, making just nine appearances for the Eagles. This loan spell has raised doubts about his long-term prospects at Arsenal. There have been reports suggesting that Vincent Kompany, manager of Burnley, is interested in acquiring Lokonga on a permanent deal.
With Arsenal looking to raise funds for new signings, Lokonga could be one of the players moved on during the summer transfer window. The potential arrival of Declan Rice from West Ham United for a reported fee of £105 million is set to further diminish Lokonga's chances of securing regular playing time. The 24-year-old Rice has already completed a two-part medical and is expected to be announced as an Arsenal player soon. This transfer, along with Granit Xhaka's move to Bayer Leverkusen for £21.5 million, would push Lokonga even further down the midfield pecking order.
There are also rumors surrounding the possible departure of Thomas Partey, with Juventus and Manchester United reportedly interested in the 30-year-old midfielder. Additionally, Arsenal has shown interest in Romeo Lavia, but Southampton is reportedly seeking a fee of around £50 million for the Belgian midfielder.
Considering the potential arrivals of Rice and Lavia, Lokonga's chances of featuring regularly in Arsenal's first team seem diminished. Therefore, a permanent exit from the club this summer appears to be the most likely outcome for the 23-year-old.
Lokonga himself confirmed his absence from Arsenal's pre-season tour on Instagram, citing a small muscular injury. He expressed his focus on recovery and preparing for the upcoming season, emphasizing his determination to be fully fit and ready to contribute to the team.
In summary, Albert Sambi Lokonga's future at Arsenal remains uncertain as he has been excluded from the pre-season tour due to a muscular injury. The Belgian midfielder's loan spell at Crystal Palace and the potential arrivals of Declan Rice and Romeo Lavia have cast doubt on his prospects at the club. With Arsenal aiming to raise funds and potentially offload players, a permanent departure for Lokonga this summer appears likely. However, Lokonga remains committed to recovering from his injury and preparing to contribute to the team when called upon.
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