According to the Athletic, Arsenal have restarted talks with 19-year-old striker Folarin Balogun. Gunners boss Mikel Arteta is keen to keep hold of him, having impressed the Spaniard.
He is currently under contract until June, 2021 but work is being done to ensure his long term future at the club.
Arsenal Looking to Extend Folarin Balogun Contract
Interest in the Summer
Balogun, who has represented both the USA and England at youth level, looked set to leave Arsenal last summer after interest from a number of clubs. Arsenal rejected a £5 million bid from Brentford in January, and this summer, there was a bid turned down from Sheffield United. Chris Wilder spoke openly about the Blades’ interest before they opted for Liverpool’s Rhian Brewster.
Since, Balogun has made his senior debut for the Gunners. The New York born forward made a substitute appearance for the North London side in their 3-0 win at home to Dundalk last month. Arteta will hope that giving him these senior minutes will go some way to convincing him to sign new terms. The Spaniard was quoted saying: ‘we believe in him and if he wants, he’s going to have a future at this club’.
Outstanding Youth Record
Balogun has been a stand-out performer throughout youth level, who has an impressive goalscoring record. He scored 25 goals in 19 games at U18 level and has continued this form into the U23s. The academy prospect scored 15 goals and clinched seven assists for Steve Bould’s side.
Decision Time
Unfortunately for Arsenal, time is of the essence as he will be able to talk to European sides in January. The Gunners could face staunch competition in keeping hold of him. There are many young prospects in the Arsenal ranks in and around the forward positions. Such circumstances may push Balogun into deciding to pursue his career elsewhere.
However, Arsenal are now confident with fresh hope that the starlet will stay put after this apparent U-turn.
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