Arsenal’s Lokonga’s surprising loan move to Luton Town after being ‘offered’ to Liverpool
Arsenal’s Albert Sambi Lokonga was reportedly offered to, and considered by, Liverpool after being labelled the ‘next Yaya Toure’, yet has ended up on loan at Luton Town.
Albert Sambi Lokonga joined Arsenal two years ago from Belgian Pro League side Anderlecht.
He quickly attracted attention for his abilities, even drawing comparisons to the Manchester City legend Yaya Toure.
While initially making 24 appearances in his first season in English football, his involvement diminished subsequently due to injury and tactical changes that he seemed unable to adapt adequately to.
Lokonga’s limited minutes with Arsenal last season saw him sent out on loan to Crystal Palace in January.
Liverpool’s lost chance
Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool’s manager, reportedly showed interest in bringing the 24-year-old Belgian midfielder to Anfield to reinforce his team.
Lokonga’s representatives even offered Liverpool the chance to finalise a deal, a surprising move given Lokonga’s perceived quality.
For reasons yet undisclosed, a deal with the Merseyside club didn’t materialise.
Luton Town’s gain
Just as it appeared that Lokonga would stay at Arsenal, Luton Town emerged as the unexpected suitors on deadline day.
A previous deal with Burnley had fallen through, opening the door for Luton to acquire Lokonga on a season-long loan.
The loan agreement, which surprised many, comes with a £500k fee and no option or obligation to buy.
Lokonga’s ongoing journey
Despite his fall from grace at Arsenal, the midfielder still has defenders of his talent, including Burnley’s current manager, Vincent Kompany.
In an interview, Kompany had endorsed Lokonga’s abilities, even referring to him as the “new Yaya Toure”.
Kompany had previously recommended Lokonga to Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta.
He added that Lokonga has the quality to demand the ball under any circumstances, a trait he likened to Yaya Toure.
Nonetheless, Kompany pointed out areas where Lokonga needed improvement, leaving room for development, something Mikel Arteta no longer seems to have the time for.