Arsenal midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga seems to be closing in on a move to newly-promoted Burnley despite fancying heading to Spain.
Albert Sambi Lokonga wanted a move to Spain but is now seeing a move from Arsenal to Burnley accelerate.
That is according to Belgian reporter Sacha Tavolieri, who claims that talks for Lokonga to join Burnley are now ‘advanced’.
The plan is for Lokonga to join Burnley on loan with an option to buy, which could even become mandatory.
That would depend on how many games Lokonga plays next season, with a certain number triggering the deal.
Tavolieri adds that Lokonga actually fancied a move to Spain but Burnley have presented the most concrete move.
A switch to Turf Moor would give Lokonga the chance to play regularly and show his ability as a Premier League player.
The 23-year-old started just eight Premier League games last season across his time with Arsenal and then on loan at Crystal Palace.
Lokonga needs to be settled and playing in order to get back on track and Burnley are offering that possibility.
Vincent Kompany is a big fan of Arsenal midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga
Lokonga may well jump at a move to Burnley in order to work under Vincent Kompany again.
The Belgian played 39 times under Kompany at Anderlecht, bagging three goals and three assists.
That sparked a 2021 move to Arsenal with the Gunners paying around £15million plus add-ons for the midfielder.
After a bright start, Lokonga lost his way a little and found it very difficult to force his way back into the team.
Lokonga may well find that Kompany has more of a clear role for him having become a huge fan over the years.
Kompany compared Lokonga to Yaya Toure and even called him ‘special’ having seen huge potential in the midfielder.
A reunion seems perfect for all parties and Burnley are now looking to get that deal done before a potential route to Spain opens up again.
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