Evening Standard
·15 July 2024
Albert Sambi Lokonga eyes long-term Sevilla stint after sealing Arsenal exit
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Evening Standard
·15 July 2024
LaLiga side have option to sign midfielder permanently for £10m
Albert Sambi Lokonga hopes he will be at Sevilla for “many years” after joining them on loan from Arsenal.
The midfielder joined the Spanish club on Monday, arriving on loan for the upcoming season.
As part of that deal, Sevilla can make the move permanent next summer for around £10million.
Lokonga, who has slipped down the pecking order at Arsenal, hopes that will be the case and is determined to make the grade in Spain.
“I have always thought about playing for Sevilla and today is the day,” Lokonga said at his unveiling press conference on Monday.
“Thank you all for the opportunity I have to play for Sevilla. I hope to stay here for many years, because I have a lot to do and a lot to prove for the club.”
Lokonga had interest from multiple clubs after he and Arsenal agreed that a move would be best for all this summer.
Sevilla, however, quickly became the Belgian’s preferred destination after he held talks with sporting director Victor Orta.
“I had some conversations with Victor,” Lokonga added. “We had the opportunity to talk a long time ago and today it finally came true.
“For me the most convincing thing is the opportunity to return to Europe and win again. I want to be part of the team, be part of the history of the club and participate in everything I can.
“I knew this day would come. Now I have more experience and I am a better player and a better person to make the most of the opportunity.
“Everyone knows that Sevilla has a great history and that is why I am here. I hope to win something with Sevilla.”