Arsenal have reportedly set a £35 million price tag on Folarin Balogun, who will not go out on another loan spell.
According to The Sun, Arsenal have placed a £35 million price tag on Folarin Balogun ahead of a possible sale in the summer. The USMNT international impressed during a loan spell with Stade Reims last season and will not go out on another temporary move.
Arsenal have a key decision on their hands regarding Folarin Balogun. The former England Under-21 striker was sent out on loan after becoming surplus to Mikel Arteta’s plans last season. He impressed with Stade Reims, finishing the campaign as their top scorer with 22 goals across all competitions.
When the season was about to end, speculation surrounding his future began making the rounds, with many suggestions in the media. For starters, he has impressed enough to get the attention of some big clubs from the top five European leagues.
Then there is the question of what his future at Arsenal looks like. Mikel Arteta has publicly rated his talent and could even consider integrating depending on the conditions. A look at the current order at Arsenal will not give a clear picture of where the young prospect fits in.
The signing of Kai Havertz at Arsenal will also play in Balogun’s mind when holding talks with the club regarding his future. Arteta would remain open to integrating him but will not promise a starting spot in the upcoming season.
As things stand, a steep pecking order in front of Balogun at Arsenal could prompt a departure. Arsenal are in a good situation with him, and the two years on his contract allow the club to command a solid fee.
The Gunners are set to demand at least £35 million for the USMNT star, which could prove trouble for the clubs interested in signing him, including Crystal Palace. Ideally, they would have wanted Balogun to sign a new contract. But his rise in prominence on the world stage will require regular appearances. He has already made it clear his unwillingness to go out on another loan spell.
West Ham are among those interested in Balogun and might have considered asking for the striker during their discussions for Declan Rice. However, Arteta will likely keep hold of the forward and test him during pre-season to determine the next steps. As for Crystal Palace, they desperately need a prolific goalscorer, with Balogun emerging as a viable target.
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But any move for the young prospect must wait until late in the window. As things stand, Arsenal will either keep and promise the striker a prominent role next season, including in the Champions League or sell him for at least £35 million in what promises to be a good market.
