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Albert Sambi Lokonga Completes Arsenal Move

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Arsenal has completed the signing of Anderlecht and Belgium midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga on a long-term contract. According to reports, the fee is not undisclosed, but it is believed to be around £17.2m. The player is Arsenal’s second signing in the ongoing transfer window.

Albert Sambi Lokonga Joins Arsenal

Albert Sambi Lokonga joined Anderlecht at the tender age of 15, and he made his first-team debut in December 2017 and has gone on to make 78 appearances, scoring three goals. According to Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta he said: “Albert is a very intelligent player who has shown great maturity.”

Albert Sambi Lokonga Completes Arsenal MoveAlbert Sambi Lokonga Completes Arsenal Move

The manager also said: “He has been coached well by Vincent Kompany and his team at Anderlecht. I know Vincent very well, and he talks so highly about Albert and the positive impact he had on Anderlecht in recent seasons.” “We’re confident Albert’s ready for the next stage in his development, and we’re looking forward to welcoming a new member to our squad with his quality and presence.”

Arsenal technical director Edu also commented on the player. He said: “There was a lot of interest in Albert, and he was a big target for us. “He will bring us strength in depth in the centre of midfield.” The midfielder, who will wear the number 23 and have Sambi on his shirt, has played seven times for Belgium Under-21’s, scoring two goals.

Lokonga will join his new teammates after he has completed the current isolation regulations for international arrivals into the UK. Arsenal is also closing in on the transfer of Brighton and England defender Ben White for £50m, having already taken 21-year-old left-back Nuno Tavares from Benfica for £8m this summer.