Chelsea interested in Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun
Chelsea are reportedly interested in signing Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun this summer, with the forward available for a fee of £50 million. The 22-year-old has enjoyed a superb loan spell in Ligue 1 with Reims last season, scoring 21 league goals in 37 appearances, and has caught the eye of clubs across Europe as a result.
Inter Milan are very keen on Balogun, while Monaco have seen one bid rejected and are expected to come back with a second offer. According to Sky Sports, the interest from Chelsea is genuine, although there has been no formal bid for Balogun from the Blues yet. West Ham have also been credited with an interest in the 22-year-old, although they have not made an official move as yet either.
Balogun’s Career So Far
Balogun is a product of Arsenal’s youth academy and has been with the club since he was eight years old. He made his senior debut in 2018 and has since made 14 appearances for the Gunners, scoring three goals. Last season, he was sent out on loan to Reims in France’s Ligue 1, where he enjoyed a successful spell, scoring 21 goals in 37 appearances.
Balogun has also recently switched his international allegiance from England to the United States and has scored once in his first two appearances for America.
What Does The Future Hold For Balogun?
Balogun is keen to play regularly this season after enjoying his spell at Reims, so it may be that Chelsea cannot offer him that, although it would clearly be a big move for him. Inter Milan and Monaco are both interested in signing Balogun, but Arsenal’s hefty asking price of £50 million may prove to be a stumbling block. Premier League clubs may well find it easier to complete a deal.
For now, Balogun remains an Arsenal player and it remains to be seen whether or not he will stay at the club this summer. Chelsea’s interest could be the catalyst for a move away from the Emirates, but only time will tell.
Conclusion
Folarin Balogun is one of the most sought-after strikers in Europe right now and it is no surprise that Chelsea are interested in signing him. The 22-year-old has enjoyed a superb loan spell in Ligue 1 with Reims last season and has caught the eye of clubs across Europe as a result. Inter Milan and Monaco are both interested in signing Balogun, but Arsenal’s hefty asking price of £50 million may prove to be a stumbling block. Premier League clubs may well find it easier to complete a deal.