Arsenal are set for talks with Folarin Balogun’s agent to take the next step towards his future.
According to Fabrizio Romano via Caught Offside, Arsenal are set to hold serious talks with Folarin Balogun’s agent. The two parties are keen to discuss the 21-year-old future as there are some decisions on whether he should stay or leave.
Folarin Balogun had an exceptional season with Stade Reims, with the 22-goal star making a name for himself. His stock has certainly rocketed due to those stellar performances, and now Mikel Arteta has a healthy dilemma.
Fans have divided opinions on what Arsenal should do with Balogun. On the one hand, many feel the striker won’t sign a new deal if he doesn’t get guarantees about regular first-team action. On the other hand, some think Arteta should give him a chance, much like how Eddie Nketiah got his.
Reports pointed towards the former as Balogun sought guarantees for regular first-team minutes. From Arteta’s perspective, it’s difficult to see him topple Gabriel Jesus or Eddie Nketiah off their perch, which might leave him as a third-choice striker.
Folarin Balogun scored his first goal for USMNT overnight. ✨🇺🇸 #USMNT
On his future says: “I definitely won't go on loan again — then I’m not sure what's going to happen”, Balogun added. #AFC
Meeting will take place between his agents and Arsenal to decide his future soon. pic.twitter.com/fxivluuGaj
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 19, 2023
Moreover, Arsenal are closing in on Kai Havertz, who many see as a centre-forward than in any other position. Hence, there are considerable doubts about what Arteta might do with the 22-goal star and how he might integrate him into the setup.
After a stellar season, Balogun has plenty of suitors from everywhere. Domestic clubs are also vying for his signature, although he might look to stake a claim at one of the top teams after the season he’s had.
Hence there’s a big decision on Arsenal’s hands about Balogun, and the club are set to sit down with his agent to talk about the striker. Fabrizio Romano’s comments suggested they might discuss price tags and potential interest from clubs.
Romano said, “Folarin Balogun has also been vocal about his future, insisting he doesn’t want to go out on loan again.”
“I understand Arsenal have a meeting scheduled with his agent in the next few days. Their relationship is very good. In this meeting, they will discuss the price tag and more, but nothing will happen this week in terms of a transfer. The plan for now is for Arsenal and Balogun to wait for the striker’s domino to start.”
“I can also say there is nothing concrete with Juventus at this stage, despite recent links. But there are many clubs showing an interest across Europe, from France, Italy and of course the Premier League.”
After winning the CONCACAF Nations League, Balogun reflected on his future and insisted he would not go out on another loan spell. Hence, it’s a clear choice for Arsenal, which would see them either keep him or sell him when the market is hot for his services.
