Arsenal have reportedly rejected Inter Milan’s bid to sign Folarin Balogun in the summer transfer window.
The 22-year-old Arsenal star, who played a little part in preseason and has missed the last two games due to injury and fitness concerns, appears to be leaving the club.
Balogun had a rapid impact for the USMNT after declaring his allegiance earlier this year. He also made an immediate impact in Ligue 1 for Stade de Reims last season. Balogun is now eager to continue developing as his stock ascends across all levels.
Now that Mikel Arteta has also added attackers to the squad, Balogun will find it extremely difficult to play regularly. When asked how he could break into the first team on the American trip, the head coach supplied very little information. “We will see., first of all, he needs to be fit and play minutes,” Arteta said.
Arsenal have just two games left against Monaco and Manchester City before the Premier League resumes on August 12 against Nottingham Forest. Then, they will play Fulham at home and Crystal Palace on the road, before the summer transfer window closes and Balogun’s destiny will be decided for good.
Inter have moved quickly in an effort to avert a scramble in the late summer.
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According to Football London, a loan bid has been made with an obligation to buy for about £30 million ($38 million), as well as a £5 million ($6.4 million) season-long fee. Although that was rejected, Balogun continues to be the top priority and target.
He still plays for Arsenal for the time being. But as the start of the new season draws closer, his chances of a long-term future at the Emirates Stadium are fading.
