After calling off their pursuit of Chelsea outcast Romelu Lukaku, Inter are exploring several other center-forward profiles in the market. Atletico Madrid’s Alvaro Morata and Arsenal’s Folarin Balogun are the likeliest candidates to complete Simone Inzaghi’s frontline next season.
According to Tuttosport, via FCInter1908, the Gunners striker has leapfrogged the experienced Spaniard on Beppe Marotta’s list of priorities. Despite being cash-strapped, Inter are ready to make a substantial financial sacrifice to prise Balogun away from London.
An offer in excess of €40 million is required to convince Arsenal to let go of the 22-year-old. But Inter have a plan to overcome that barrier. The Italians are willing to pay €5m to land Balogun on a season-long loan, which would include a mandatory purchase option at €35m.
Morata would be a cheaper alternative. However, the ex-Juventus frontman has entered the fourth decade, and Inter won’t set back from a hefty figure to bring him back to Serie A. Instead, they’ve opted for the young gun, who flourished in Ligue 1 last season.
Balogun ran the show at Reims in 2022/23, developing into one of Europe’s hottest prospects. But despite his eye-catching exploits, he’s unlikely to get a prominent role at Arsenal. It’s more likely that he’ll be allowed to leave so the Gunners can comply with FFP.
After spending around €200m this summer, the Premier League runners-up must sell some players to stay within FFP regulations. That doesn’t necessarily mean Inter can sign Balogun on favorable terms.
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Arsenal have rejected two bids of €55 million after addons for Balogan already, and have decided to keep him due to his €60 million plus valuation not being met. We will have to find another young 20 goal a season striker for €40 million, is there any available that fits that profile for that price in todays market?