Albert Sambi Lokonga’s transfer to Arsenal is now just a matter of time, as Anderlecht reportedly search for a replacement.

Kristof Terreur of Belgian outlet HLN reports that an Albert Sambi Lokonga deal to join Arsenal is now ‘just a matter of time’. Anderlecht are working on a replacement for the midfielder as they prepare to let him leave for North London.

Various reports in the English media this week suggested that a deal was progressing well, with Arsenal holding positive talks with Anderlecht and the player expected to be one of the club’s first summer signings.

Despite interest from elsewhere, Sambi Lokonga has made it clear he wants to join Arsenal, and personal terms are reportedly already done.

Sambi Lokonga made 37 appearances for Anderlecht this season, as well as a few for the Belgium u21s. His performances earned him a senior Belgium call-up, but he was the unlucky ’27th man’ at Euro 2020, narrowly missing out on the squad.

The 21-year-old dynamic defensive midfielder is already captain of his club side and highly rated by his country, and the benefit of his Euros absence is that he’d be available for Arsenal immediately in pre-season.