Luton Town manager Rob Edwards is expressing strong interest in securing Arsenal midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga permanently.
Lokonga, 24, has spent the current season on loan at Luton from Arsenal, contributing significantly with 12 appearances and two assists across various competitions. His presence has been instrumental in Luton’s battle against relegation, with the team currently positioned 17th, just one point above the drop zone.
With Lokonga’s loan set to conclude this summer, he is expected to return to Arsenal. Despite having two years remaining on his contract with the Gunners after his £17 million move from Anderlecht, Edwards is eager to explore the possibility of securing Lokonga’s services permanently.
Speaking highly of Lokonga, Edwards praised his talent and impact on the team, revealing his admiration for the Belgian midfielder:
“I love him. He’s amazing. I think he’s a brilliant player. I told him as we were walking off the pitch after training, ‘god you’re some player, I love watching you play.’ He’s great. He’s been great for us.”
When asked about the potential of signing Lokonga permanently, Edwards expressed his desire while acknowledging the financial considerations:
“I would love to. I don’t know if we’re going to be in that kind of ball park, that kind of market. But we’d love to have him here longer term…”
Despite Lokonga’s expressed desire to establish himself at Arsenal, reports suggest that Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has decided to part ways with Lokonga once his loan spell with Luton concludes. This decision comes despite Lokonga’s intentions to secure a future at the Emirates Stadium.
