Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun has hinted that his return to north London next season is not set in stone, with the 21-year-old thriving out on loan with Stade de Reims this season.
In an interview with L’Equipe, the England youth international seemingly suggested that he would be open to leave the Gunners on a permanent basis in the summer, with Gabriel Jesus likely tor retain the starting striking position under Mikel Arteta in 2023.
Balogun was sent out on loan in the summer to Ligue 1 side Reims where the attacker has become something of a sensation, with the striker breaking numerous club records after bagging six goals in 11 league appearances for William Still’s club.
With the attack’s contract with Arsenal set to expire in 2025, there’s a good chance that Balogun could leave the Emirates Stadium for good next summer should Arteta fail to give the youngster the reassurance that he will be a regular for the north London side.
And Balogun himself is seemingly prepared for an outcome where he has to leave Arsenal for good, with the striker saying when asked about his club and international future: “Just like my future at club level, I am not closing any doors regarding international selection. All options remain open.”
With Eddie Nketiah impressing as Arsenal’s backup to Jesus, the prospect of Balogun leaving feels very likely next summer, and with the attacker thriving out on loan with Reims, the Gunners could be set for a big transfer next year if they decide to sell the forward on a permanent basis.
Balogun’s Reims loan could land Arsenal quite the transfer fee in 2023
Baolgun’s goalscoring run with Reims is reminiscent of Joe Willock’s at Newcastle United in the 2020/21 season, with the midfielder winning a permanent £25m move to the Magpies the following summer. And for Arsenal, the Gunners could recoup an even bigger fee next summer for their 21-year-old striker.
Indeed, the England youth international is thriving in one of the best leagues in Europe with a side who have historically not achieved much, and Balogun’s form could result in a permanent move to a huge club with the transfer market likely to become rejuveninated again.
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