Fabrizio Romano has said no discussions are ongoing yet between Arsenal and Stade de Reims over recalling Folarin Balogun, with the Gunners exploring striker options in the January transfer window.
Taking to Twitter, the Italian journalist stated that ‘as things stand’ the expectation is for Balogun to complete his season-long loan spell at Reims, where the England youth international has been in sensational form for the Ligue 1 side.
The 21-year-old striker has bagged eight goals in 13 league appearances for Reims with Balogun also breaking numerous club records for the French team in his first slate of matches for the Champagne-based side.
And with Gabriel Jesus suffering a three-month injury over the 2022 FIFA World Cup, it makes sense why there have been rumours and calls from Arsenal supporters to recall Balogun, who could provide excellent cover for the Brazilian international.
However, as stated by Romano, there is little expectation that this will actually happen in January, with Balogun better suited to staying in France with Reims and playing regular football in Ligue 1 rather than acting as deputy to Eddie Nketiah at Arsenal.
Arsenal will be smart to not recall Balogun despite striker crisis
As mentioned, Nketiah is expected to lead the line for Arsenal in the coming months with Jesus out injured, and given Arteta’s method of squad rotation, Balogun is much better off staying with Reims despite the alluring prospect of getting recalled.
Indeed, Balogun will likely only feature in the FA Cup clash against Oxford United and off the bench in certain Premier League games and the UEFA Europa League. And as a result, the Gunners are wise to keep the striker out in France where he will be a regular for Reims.
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