When asked about Folarin Balogun’s future at Arsenal this summer, Mikel Arteta gave a cautious reaction. The 22-year-old had a standout loan season with Reims last year, scoring 22 goals during that time.
Football.london has learned that the Arsenal are willing to transfer Folarin Balogun this summer if the price is right. According to reports, Arsenal has set a £50 million asking price for the Hale End graduate. The player is reportedly hoping that the club will reduce this figure to facilitate a long-term transfer away from the Emirates Stadium.
Following their Emirates Cup match, the Gunners turned down a written offer from Monaco, according to football.london. As Balogun looks to settle his future before the transfer window ends, the French team is anticipated to return with a better offer.
Inter Milan was reportedly mulling a deal for the Hale Ender, but now they are reportedly considering Marko Arnautovic and Mehdi Taremi. According to Italian journalist Alfredo Pedulla, Inter have informed Balogun and Arsenal of their decision. Monaco now appear to have a free hand to recruit the 22-year-old.
Mikel Arteta stated following Gabriel Jesus’ recent knee surgery: “The plans with Flo don’t change at all but regrettably with Gabby [Gabriel Jesus] we’re not going to have him. We have additional opportunities to play with players of different calibers, and we will adjust.
Speaking ahead of the clash against Nottingham Forest this weekend, Arteta was coy in his response when asked for an update on Balogun’s future at the club. The Arsenal boss said: “I cannot talk about internal things here, sorry.”
All three of Eddie Nketiah, Leandro Trossard, and Kai Havertz have the capacity to make up for Jesus’ absence. The Brazilian’s conditioning has improved, according to Arteta, and Jesus is expected to resume training some capacity next week.
It’s still a little early, Arteta noted. He is recovering pretty well from his surgery.
“Perhaps he can begin participating in activities next week. We need to exercise caution and ensure that he returns in the proper manner.