Folarin Balogun speaks about almost making Tottenham Hotspur move before he joined Arsenal.
Balogun, who is now 17 years of age and operates as a forward, has been on the books of Arsenal since he was 10 years old.
The talented and promising forward has revealed that he was closing to joining Arsenal’s bitter North London rivals Tottenham when he was a kid.
The 17-year-old has also revealed that he kept in touch with Spurs while he was trial at Arsenal.
Balogun told Arsenal’s official website: “I have been at Arsenal since I was 10 years old and they are the team I’ve always supported, but I was very close to signing for Spurs!
“Thankfully I was spotted by Arsenal playing for my Sunday League side Aldersbrook. The scout was Alan Knowles, who saw me in the semi-final of a tournament and mentioned Arsenal’s interest to my father.
“After the final – which we won with me scoring – I was told of their interest and invited to a trial. I was really happy, but I was also trialling with Tottenham, who had expressed an interest earlier.
“I had a six-week trial with Arsenal but had to keep a connection with Spurs just in case I didn’t get an offer. I was speaking to Spurs again but thankfully Arsenal signed me and I have been with the club ever since.”
Making Arsenal breakthrough
Balogun has yet to make a breakthrough in the Arsenal first team, but the youngster is very highly rated.
Given that the forward is only 17 years of age, it could take the teenager two or three years to establish himself in the Gunners’ senior side.
What is important is that the youngster continues to work hard and plays well for the Arsenal youth team.
Next season
Meanwhile, the Arsenal first team will be aiming to challenge for the Premier League title next season.
New manager Unai Emery has made a number of signings in the summer transfer window, including Stephan Lichtsteiner and Lucas Torreira.
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