Why the Sambi Lokonga to Milan rumours make no sense

The transfer window rumour mill kept turning with reports of AC Milian’s interest in Sambi Lokonga. The interest might be there, but there is no way Arsenal make this deal happen, even for a loan.

Sambi had a decent first season in North London, a bit up and down but his form didn’t waver to the extent that Nuno Tavares’ did. The Portuguese full-back has smartly been sent out on loan to Marseille.

I think it would be wise for the club to keep the young Belgian midfielder this season. Obviously, a loan deal would mean that he would get a good amount of playing time to improve and adapt but the time that he’ll get this season at Arsenal will be very beneficial to his development.

Why the Sambi Lokonga to Milan rumours make no sense

As things stand right now, he is second in the pecking order at the left #8 position behind Granit Xhaka, and even if things change with new signings, Sambi will still get decent minutes. He’ll likely feature throughout the Europa League group stages, while he can also provide cover for Thomas Partey at the base of midfield.

There is a decent chance that a deal for another midfielder doesn’t happen this summer, especially with the purchase of Fabio Vieira and Emile Smith Rowe’s capacity to play as a number 8 as well.

Sambi clearly has the tools to succeed in the Premier League and we have seen those glimpses last season and preseason. He is a talented player, once compared to Yaya Toure by Vincent Kompany.

Sambi appeared on a podcast a few weeks ago where he said:

"“I want freedom, when I have that you’ll see the real Sambi.”"

This was in reference to his position and as we have seen when he has been deployed as an #8 he has been very good.

Sambi Lokonga should be in Arsenal’s plans for this season. I think it would be stupid if he wasn’t.