AC Milan have identified Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun as one of their 'dream' striker signings this summer. A move away from the Emirates Stadium is growing increasingly likely for the 22-year-old after his breakthrough season in France.
Despite being viewed as a player for the future, Balogun's stock drastically increased after scoring 22 goals for Stade Reims in the 2022/23 campaign. His performances in Ligue 1 has resulted in him becoming in high-demand this summer.
A place in Mikel Arteta's side seems rather unlikely due to Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah's presence in the attacking ranks. Kai Havertz's move from Chelsea has only added more speculation surrounding the USMNT's future, with a host of clubs registering their interest.
football.london understands that Arsenal are open to offers for the Hale Ender, with £50million ($64.5million) the price set for his services. It's also understood that Bundesliga side RB Leipzig are interested, as well as a number of Italian and Premier League teams.
Now, it has been reported that Serie A outfit AC Milan have restored their interest in the New York-born forward. According to Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, Balogun is one of three names on Stefano Pioli's dream transfer reinforcements.
Milan are seeking replacements for Zlatan Ibrahimovic after his retirement and are expected to make a move in the next month. It's said Lille's Jonathan David and FC Porto's Mehdi Taremi join Balogun on I Rossoneri's shortlist.
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The problem for Arsenal comes in the finances involved. The £50million price tag has, so far, turned a number of clubs off the idea of signing Balogun. Six months ago, it was suggested £35million ($45million) would be enough to force the Gunners' hand, but their stance has altered.
What is becoming evidently clear is that Arteta will test Balogun's quality throughout pre-season. The 22-year-old is currently in Germany with the rest of the squad ahead of Thursday's pre-season opener with FC Nurnberg and his spot on the plane to the United States has already been confirmed.
Should Balogun impress Arteta, the plan could be turned on its head and we could see him feature in the Premier League next season.
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