Folarin Balogun is in conversation with VfB Stuttgart over a possible transfer as he runs down his contract, according to a report in Germany.

Kicker report that Arsenal’s Folarin Balogun is ‘in conversation’ with VfB Stuttgart. The German club are watching his situation closely, hoping to take advantage of the uncertainty around his contract situation.

Balogun can speak to foreign clubs in January when the transfer window opens. He only has six months left on his Arsenal contract, so he’s eligible to sign a pre-contract agreement with the likes of Stuttgart.

Kicker emphasise the Sven Mislintat connection, writing that the former Arsenal head of recruitment knows Balogun well. Stuttgart are on a tight budget, but signing the 19-year-old on a free transfer could be one way to add to their squad regardless.

Stuttgart are also growing a reputation for giving young players chances. Balogun would likely be tempted by the chance to start regularly in one of Europe’s top-five leagues.

The Beautiful Game Podcast recently reported that the academy striker is attracting interest from both Germany and Italy. David Ornstein added for The Athletic that Arsenal still have no agreement over a new contract at this stage.

It’s still not impossible the teenager sticks around, but it’s growing more and more unlikely by the game.