Arsenal have confirmed the signing of Belgian midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga.
The 21-year-old has been heavily linked with a move to the Emirates in recent weeks and on Monday, the Gunners confirmed his arrival from Anderlecht.
"Albert Sambi Lokonga has joined us from Anderlecht on a long-term contract," a statement read on the club's official website.
"The 21-year-old midfielder came through the Belgian club's youth system after joining in 2014 as a 15-year-old and signing his first professional contract in November 2017.
"He made his first-team debut for Anderlecht in December 2017 and has been a regular in their side over the past two seasons, making a total of 78 appearances."
On the move, head coach Mikel Arteta said: "Albert is a very intelligent player who has shown great maturity in his performances during his development.
"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 to 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."
🎯 Albert Sambi Lokonga made more passes per game (63.3) than any other player in the Jupiler Pro League last season pic.twitter.com/nSPytuJEkC
— WhoScored.com (@WhoScored) July 18, 2021
Lokonga reinforced a statistically calculated WhoScored strength of 'passing' well last season as he made more passes per game (63.3) than any other player in the Jupiler Pro League.
