Strengthening the Sevilla Midfield
Sevilla continues in talks with Arsenal to incorporate a footballer who has been requested by Xavi García Pimienta. Since the arrival of the Catalan coach at the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán, the sports management has been working to establish the foundations for the future together with him and has made it a priority to strengthen the Sevilla midfield. This area of the field has been affected by several departures and from the Nervión offices they are trying to speed up several additions.
Sambi Lokonga’s Petition
García Pimienta has asked Víctor Orta for the incorporation of Sambi Lokonga. The promising Arsenal midfielder has been on loan at Premier League side Luton Town this season, where despite failing to secure a permanent stay, he has excelled and become one of the best footballers in Rob Edwards’ squad.
Situation at Arsenal
Mikel Arteta is without Sambi Lokonga for next season as Arsenal’s core is well covered. This could play into Sevilla’s favour, as the Gunners would be looking for a destination for the player, either through a transfer or in the form of a loan with an option to buy.
Ongoing negotiations
Sevilla is active in negotiations and although in past signing markets the footballer had already been linked with the Andalusian club, now his arrival is closer than ever to becoming a reality. At 24 years old, Lokonga has been international with Belgium and was a bet for the future of Arsenal. Despite this, after two loan spells at Crystal Palace and Luton Town, he has yet to stand out above the current midfielders in Arteta’s team.
Strengthening the spinal cord
The arrival of Sambi Lokonga responds to García Pimienta’s request to strengthen the core of his team. After the departures of Ivan Rakitić and Fernando Reges, as well as the departure of Oliver Torres and the likely departure of Joan Jordán, the reinforcement in this position is crucial for Sevilla. This has led to the appearance of names such as that of the Arsenal player or that of the Slovenian star Timi Max Elšnik as possible additions.
With this panorama, Sevilla’s sporting director, Víctor Orta, is preparing for a very active summer and Lokonga’s arrival could be the second official addition after Chidera Ejuke.
