Arsenal keen to offload two out of favour midfielders

In partnership with

Just Arsenal News

·25. August 2025

Arsenal keen to offload two out of favour midfielders

Arsenal have been one of the busiest clubs in the transfer market this summer, securing several new signings while still pursuing further additions in the final week of the window. The club’s ambition to challenge for the Premier League title has been matched by heavy investment in squad depth, ensuring Mikel Arteta has quality options across the pitch.

However, the influx of new players has inevitably created pressure on existing members of the squad. Some of the club’s longer-serving players now face the reality of limited opportunities, with Arsenal expected to prioritise outgoings before the deadline. Arteta has expressed satisfaction with the new arrivals, but the sheer size of the squad means certain departures are viewed as necessary.

OneFootball Videos

Focus Shifts to Outgoings

According to The Sun, Arsenal intend to spend the final stretch of the transfer window working on player exits. With the squad now considered too large, the club are determined to move on individuals who are no longer central to Arteta’s plans. Two midfielders in particular have been earmarked for departure, with the report claiming that Fabio Vieira and Albert Sambi Lokonga have been informed to seek new clubs.

Both players have struggled to establish themselves as regulars at the Emirates. Vieira, despite occasional flashes of promise, has found consistent opportunities limited since his arrival. Similarly, Sambi Lokonga has been unable to secure a lasting role in midfield, and with competition for places now even stronger, his chances of breaking back into the side appear slim.

Fabio Vieira (Getty Images)

Trimming the Squad Ahead of the Deadline

The decision to actively pursue exits for Vieira and Lokonga reflects Arsenal’s broader strategy of maintaining balance and efficiency within the squad. While the club have strengthened significantly in recent weeks, they are keen to avoid carrying players who are unlikely to contribute meaningfully during the campaign.

For Arsenal, the next few days will be crucial in finalising both incomings and outgoings. Offloading fringe players not only reduces the wage bill but also provides financial room for further investment should opportunities arise. For Vieira and Lokonga, meanwhile, the closing days of the window could be decisive in shaping the next stage of their careers, as they look to secure moves that will give them regular football.

Arsenal’s transfer business is therefore far from complete, with the club aiming to ensure the squad is balanced, competitive, and ready for the challenges of the season ahead.

__________________________________________________________________________________________ ADMIN COMMENT

So here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….

You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.

CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, please contact us through this link…