LATEST NEWS: LUTON TOWN LOAN STATEMENT RELEASED

LUTON TOWN LOAN

Given his lack of development in the previous season, Arsenal made the decision to loan Lokonga out for the entirety of the 2023/24 season – this time with Premier League newcomers Luton Town.

The acquisition of the midfielder proved something of a coup for the newly promoted side, who many hoped could make a big difference in the Hatters’ bid for Premier League survival.

Lokonga’s chance at a fresh start got off to the worst possible start, however, as he suffered a hamstring injury after just two appearances – which saw him sidelined until December.

Lokonga hit the ground running following his return from injury, however, and quickly showed signs of why his signing had been so warmly received in the first place.

He played an instrumental role in Luton’s 3-2 comeback win away to Sheffield United on Boxing Day, a huge result at the time for their hopes of survival.

He would go on to enjoy his best run of form since arriving in England in the months that followed, playing a fundamental role in midfield as Luton battled for Premier League survival until the final day of the season.

Though Luton ultimately succumbed to relegation, it proved to be a successful campaign on a personal level for Lokonga – who finished the season with four goal involvements in 17 Premier League appearances, as well as looking very comfortable in midfield against some of the league’s best players.

With Arsenal known to be looking for a midfielder in the transfer window to play alongside Declan Rice, some had hoped to see Lokonga given a chance to impress, at least in pre-season – but such a chance was not afforded to him.

• The deal

Lokonga’s move to Sevilla will, at least initially, be a loan deal, with the Spanish side covering all of his wages during his time there.

They will then have the option to buy Lokonga permanently next summer for £10m, which would also see the Gunners hold a 25 per cent sell-on clause, should the Belgian ever be sold by Sevilla.

Even with the loan fees that Lokonga has drawn in during spells with Crystal Palace and Luton, Arsenal will record a loss on the midfielder if his loan with Sevilla is made permanent – having paid £17m for him three years ago.