Arsenal loanee Folarin Balogun has attracted interest from Newcastle ahead of the summer transfer window following an impressive spell with Stade de Reims. The Hale End graduate has scored 15 goals in Ligue 1 so far this season, more than Paris Saint-Germain superstars Lionel Messi and Neymar (both 13).
The 21-year-old has proven he has what it takes to start - and contribute - at senior level and Balogun will likely want a guarantee of regular game time at the Emirates Stadium next season. This may prove difficult with Gabriel Jesus expected to remain as Mikel Arteta's number one choice at striker, along with Eddie Nketiah's impressive form in the Brazilian's absence this season.
It is something, however, the likes of Newcastle, AC Milan, Inter, Villarreal and Marseille can offer with all clubs being reported to be keen on signing in Balogun this summer. Arsenal are said to have set a £35million price tag for the talented striker who continues to impress in Ligue 1.
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Arteta has already discussed Arsenal's plan for when Balogun returns to north London following his loan spell with Reims, with a decision on his future set to be finalised in the summer. After the end of the January transfer window, the Gunners boss said: “We have been extremely impressed with Flo this season.
"He has continually shown his natural ability in many training sessions with us and we have been equally impressed with his early integration into the first-team squad on matchdays. He has given us glimpses of the performances and of course his two goals already for the first team.
"The hard work starts here for Flo and we are all looking forward to supporting and working with him in the years to come.”
Writing for CaughtOffside in his column last week, French football expert Jonathan Johnson mentioned Premier League interest in Balogun, and now journalist Steve Kay has another update, revealing that the youngster is an option for Newcastle. Balogun could be a good fit for what Newcastle are trying to build at St. James' Park, with Eddie Howe tending to favour young players, and with upgrades probably needed in attack after a dry spell from Callum Wilson.
Balogun has already reaped the rewards of a temporary move away from his boyhood team, hinting that he would like to remain in north London next season in an interview with L'Equipe. "Arsenal is my family. For me, the club represents brotherhood and unity,” Balogun explained.
"There, I learned always to push my limits. I remember from training the permanent desire to progress on a technical level.
"I think by the time I go back I’ll be in a better place to compete than I was before I left. I realised there were certain things I would struggle with, but I think that’s a good thing. It helps you to manage stuff you’re uncomfortable with which is important.”
Should the Gunners wish to cash in on the 21-year-old striker, it could allow them to invest the funds received from his sale into other areas of the squad. football.london understands Arsenal have made signing Declan Rice from West Ham a priority this summer, with reports suggesting he could be available for around £80million given the fact he will have one year left on his contract with the Hammers at the end of this season.
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