Arsenal could host massive bidding war for “really ambitious” striker
By Evan Curnew
Once a position not long ago that needed massive upgrading, Arsenal now has serious depth at the striker position. Signing Gabriel Jesus last summer kickstarted the revival of the centre-forward position, and the emergence of Eddie Nketiah last season provided additional depth. Now Arsenal have signed Kai Havertz from Chelsea, but they also have another top striker on the cards.
Folarin Balogun has returned from his loan in France. He spent last season with Stade Reims in Ligue 1, where he bagged an impressive 21 goals in the league. He was recently described by Mikel Arteta as “really ambitious.” The USMNT striker has been subject to much interest this summer, originally being seen as a target for RB Leipzig before they signed Lois Openda.
As The Top Flight has covered, Inter is circling back on signing Folarin Balogun after looking to sign Gianluca Scamacca. Inter has lost both Edin Dzeko and Romelu Lukaku this summer. Chelsea’s Lukaku has broken his relationship with Inter after holding talks with rivals Juventus, who could still land the striker. Reports are suggesting another team has entered the race for Balogun.
AS Monaco sees bid rejected by Arsenal for Folarin Balogun
David Ornstein of The Athletic is reporting that AS Monaco has seen both a verbal and written bid rejected for Balogun. Ornstein states that Thiago Scuro, director of football at Monaco, has a good relationship with Edu, who is the sporting director at Arsenal. Monaco is still focused on signing Folarin Balogun despite the rejections. Monaco are keen to sign a striker after Breel Embolo suffered a long-term injury in pre-season. In what will be bad news for Inter fans, Ornstein believes Inter may not have the money that Arsenal wants for Folarin Balogun.
The Gunners will gladly welcome a bidding war as they look to recoup funds after spending massive money on Declan Rice, Jurrien Timber and Kai Havertz.