Folarin Balogun has emerged as a target for AC Milan next summer, who are looking for a long-term heir to Olivier Giroud.
According to Calcio Mercato, AC Milan keeps tabs on Folarin Balogun, with the young striker impressing in France. The Rossoneri are searching for a long-term heir to Olivier Giroud and remain keen on the Arsenal striker next summer.
AC Milan are trying to recruit an Arsenal youngster to replace a former Gunners star on their side. The Italian giants are keen on Folarin Balogun to replace veteran striker Olivier Giroud in the long term, as they plan on approaching next summer.
Giroud has had an accomplished career in France, England and now Italy. The Frenchman has won numerous honours during this period, including the Champions League and the World Cup. Last season, he added the Serie A title to his name with AC Milan and continued to lead the charge in the side.
In the absence of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Giroud has taken on a prominent role, often leading the line for the club. Earlier this week, he scored a brace and assisted a goal as Milan trumped RB Salzburg and qualified for the knockout stages of the Champions League.
Milan appreciates the importance of the striker’s experience, although they are open to bringing in a successor. The Frenchman is 36, and Milan understands the need to target a player of a younger core. Arsenal prospect Folarin Balogun is being considered an option next summer.
Balogun is yet to break into the Arsenal side under Mikel Arteta. Having started a few games at the start of last season, the striker fell down the pecking order once the regular starters came back into the fold. He has since found life on the periphery, despite signing a new long-term deal in 2021.
With the arrival of Gabriel Jesus and the contract extension of Eddie Nketiah, Balogun had to find a solution to play regular football. He joined Reims on loan during the summer, which has paid dividends. The Arsenal prospect has scored 7 goals and assisted twice in 13 Ligue 1 appearances.
Those numbers are impressive in the French league and have attracted several sides’ attention. Milan are among those interested, as an approach could be on the cards next summer from the Italian giants.
Arsenal would take note of the interest, and if Arteta cannot find a viable solution for Balogun in his squad, a sale could become an option. The Gunners could demand a sizeable fee for their academy prospect, as there is hope for Milan next summer.
