Sambi Lokonga Set to Depart Arsenal as Mikel Arteta Trims Squad.

Sambi Lokonga is set to be the latest casualty of Mikel Arteta’s clear-out of Arsenal’s squad. Sources have confirmed that the 23-year-old midfielder will not feature in North London next season, despite returning from a loan spell at Crystal Palace this summer.

The Belgium international has endured an underwhelming season with the Eagles, failing to make a single league start in 2021. His lack of game time has put his future at Arsenal in doubt, and Arteta is keen to move him on quickly as there is no place for him in the Gunners squad.

Lokonga joined Arsenal from Anderlecht in 2019 but has never been able to establish himself in the first team. He has made just three appearances for the Gunners and spent last season on loan at Celtic, where he made 10 league starts.

Despite failing to make an impact during his time in Scotland and England, Lokonga still possesses a huge amount of potential that could be unlocked with regular playing time elsewhere. His technical ability and passing range have been praised by scouts, but he has yet to put that into practice in a competitive match.

It remains to be seen where Lokonga will end up this summer, but it is clear that Arsenal are ready to part ways with the midfielder. His departure will free up space for Arteta to sign new players, with the Gunners reportedly targeting a midfielder and defender ahead of the 2021-22 campaign.