- EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey
Celtic were one of many clubs showcasing interest in Arsenal midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga, but he is now closing on a move to Spain.
HITC understands that the 24-year-old has agreed terms with Sevilla – who are close to finalising a deal with Arsenal.
Albert Sambi Lokonga spent the previous campaign on loan at Luton Town, who were relegated from the Premier League, and previously he was at Crystal Palace.
The Belgium international initially moved to the Emirates in 2021 from Anderlecht as a highly-rated talent, but he couldn’t get going in north London.
Overall, he made 39 appearances for Arsenal, failing to score or assist and he is now looking for a new chapter in his career.
Premier League clubs, Celtic and Rangers interested in Albert Sambi Lokonga
HITC has been told that Lokonga had options to stay in the Premier League with Leicester City and Southampton amongst those who were interested.
The two teams had just earned promotion to the Premier League, with the Foxes, who won the Championship outright, expected to lose start midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall to Chelsea.
Scottish Premiership champions Celtic, who are managed by Brendan Rodgers, and their Glasgow rivals Rangers, also held an interest in Lokonga.
Celtic won the domestic double last season and now Rodgers is aiming to dominate further in Scotland, but also progress the club in the Champions League.
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Albert Sambi Lokonga to join Sevilla
However, Lokonga has decided that Sevilla was the right move for him and now a deal is close to completion.
The two clubs have agreed a season-long loan, but the only detail left to agree on is whether there is an option, which Sevilla would prefer or a mandatory agreement.
The Spanish giants have had a few troubling seasons in La Liga, despite winning the Europa League during the 2022-23 campaign.
At one point last season, they were in a relegation battle, but pushed up the table and finished 14th.
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