According to Lesoir, Albert Sambi Lokonga hasn’t travelled with RSC Anderlecht on their pre-season tour, as a move to Arsenal nears.
What’s the story?
Well, it seems like the 21-year-old will become Arsenal’s first signing of the summer very soon – either him or Nuno Tavares, at least.
Lesoir state that RSC Anderlecht travelled three hours by coach ahead of their friendly clashes with FC Utrecht and AZ Alkmaar.
Lokonga was not present on that coach alongside his manager, Vincent Kompany.
Lesoir believe he could even join Arsenal this week – his switch to the Emirates Stadium is described as imminent.
RSC Anderlecht have even found a replacement for their captain already.
Arsenal are making some smart moves
In recent times, Arsenal have made some seriously short-sighted moves.
Deals to bring Stephan Lichtsteiner and Sokratis to north London on big wages were not too sensible, and now both players have left.
In stark contrast, signing the likes of Lokonga and Tavares for relatively small fees provides a welcome change in approach.
Now, Arsenal have players who will maintain their value, or ensure it skyrockets, if they perform well in the Premier League.
For context, even if players like Lichtsteiner and Sokratis did succeed, they were too old for Arsenal to benefit from a re-sale, or from more years of their efforts.
Now, in signing younger players, Mikel Arteta has players who will presumably be more coachable and absorbent to his methods.
All in all, these type of signings are far more beneficial to the Gunners.
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