Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun has stated that the Gunners must either sell him this summer or integrate him into their first team next season.
The USMNT striker enjoyed a remarkable season on loan at Stade de Reims, scoring 21 goals in Ligue 1 and recording two assists.
His form in France has made him an easy target for top European clubs, who see the 21-year-old as a player with a high ceiling.
However, Balogun might struggle to find game time at Arsenal despite his goal-scoring abilities. The Gunners already have Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah competing for the No 9 position, so they could look to cash in on Balogun’s form to fund their moves for other targets.
And Balogun, who has two years remaining on his deal at the Emirates, wants a resolution on his future.
“What I can say is that I definitely won’t go on loan again,” the 21-year-old said after scoring his first goal for USMNT on Sunday night.
“I’m not sure [about] the discussions that are going to take place. I’m not sure what’s going to happen.
“But I’m just committed to now. I try to stay present. I obviously want to enjoy the moment with my team and my family.”
Balogun, who previously had a loan spell with Middlesbrough, is a product of Arsenal’s academy and has made just ten first-team appearances for the club. But most of those appearances came in cup competitions, and he is looking for a meaningful role in the team if he is to stay.
Folarin Balogun scored his first goal for USMNT overnight. ✨🇺🇸 #USMNT
On his future says: “I definitely won't go on loan again — then I’m not sure what's going to happen”, Balogun added. #AFC
Meeting will take place between his agents and Arsenal to decide his future soon. pic.twitter.com/fxivluuGaj
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 19, 2023
