Arsenal plans to reject any transfer bids for on-loan striker Folarin Balogun, as the club has long-term plans for the young talent.
No intention to sell in-demand Balogun
Arsenal have reportedly made it clear that they have no intention of selling on-loan Reims striker Folarin Balogun this summer.
The 21-year-old has been in scintillating form for the French club, attracting attention from several top European sides.
However, Arsenal are set to reject all transfer bids for the young talent, as they have long-term plans for him at the Emirates Stadium.
Balogun’s impressive performance at Reims
Since joining Reims on a season-long loan, Balogun has proven to be a force to reckon with in Ligue 1.
With 17 goals to his name, the England U21 international has played a crucial role in Reims’ 19-match unbeaten run, the longest current streak in any of Europe’s Big 5 leagues.
Arsenal’s plans for the young striker
Manager Mikel Arteta and technical director Edu have been closely monitoring Balogun’s progress and are determined to keep him at the club.
The Gunners are apparently considering two options for Balogun’s future: either loaning him back to Reims for another season or reintegrating him into Arsenal’s first-team squad.
Regardless, the club has no plans to sell the in-demand striker, whose contract runs until 2025.
Interest from Serie A giants Milan and Inter
Balogun’s stellar performances in France have not gone unnoticed, with Serie A powerhouses Milan and Inter reportedly expressing interest in the young forward.
However, Arsenal’s firm stance on retaining Balogun will likely deter any potential suitors. Reims, for their part, have admitted that signing the player permanently is “impossible.”
Arteta’s history with young talents
Arteta has a track record of nurturing and developing young talents at Arsenal, often sending them out on loan to gain valuable experience.
A prime example is centre-back William Saliba, who enjoyed three loan spells in Ligue 1 before making his mark on Arsenal’s first team.
Arteta is looking to do similar with Balogun, ensuring he has ample time to develop before returning to the Gunners’ lineup.
Decision on Balogun’s future to be made after the season
While Arsenal has no intention of selling Balogun, the final decision on his future—whether he returns to the Emirates or remains at Reims—will be made at the end of the current season.
With the player’s contract secured until 2025, Arsenal have the luxury of time to carefully plan Balogun’s development and integration into the first team, ensuring a bright future for the young striker.
Where will Folarin Balogun fit at Arsenal?
Balogun’s impressive performance in Ligue 1 certainly raises questions about his future at Arsenal.
Despite recent successful signings in Gabriel Jesus and Leandro Trossard, Balogun’s goal-scoring ability at just 21 years old makes him a strong candidate for inclusion in the Gunners’ squad.
Although he has a different playing style and will need to adapt quickly upon his return, Balogun’s versatility and potential for long-term growth could make him a valuable asset for Arsenal.