RB Leipzig reportedly have the upper hand in negotiations for Arsenal-owned striker Folarin Balogun, who has been punching above his weight in Ligue 1 this season. The 21-year-old is expected to return to Arsenal at the end of his loan stint in Reims but is not anticipated to continue his journey with the Gunners, with Milan and Inter also in the running.
According to Sky Sport Deutschland, Leipzig have initiated first contacts with the player’s entourage and Arsenal, hoping to secure a deal before fellow contenders. Olympique de Marseille and AS Monaco, along with the Serie A giants, are keeping close tabs on the proceedings.
News #Balogun: The 21 y/o is on the shortlist of Leipzig confirmed! In order to replace Nkunku. RB has inquired about him. The striker from from Stade Reims will be cheaper than J. David. Therefore very interesting for Leipzig. Many clubs are in! @philipphinze24 @SkySportDE ????????? pic.twitter.com/A08StFZfR7
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) April 11, 2023
Keeping pace with his contract, which expires in the summer of 2025, the Premier League leaders will demand nothing short of €40M in transfer fee. Balogun is opposed to a third career loan spell next season and wants a permanent move instead, as he aspires to play a starring role in the center-forward position. The Arsenal youth product has starred for England U21 but is also eligible to play for either USMNT or even Nigeria, thanks to his birth place and lineage, respectively.
⚽ 18 goals for Reims in Ligue 1 means AC Milan and Inter, Marseille, Monaco and RB Leipzig all interested
? Yet to declare if he will play for England, Nigeria or #USMNT
Folarin Balogun has played himself into control of his own situation.
— The Athletic | Football (@TheAthleticFC) April 11, 2023
Only Kylian Mbappe and Jonathan David (19) have scored more goals than Balogun (18) in the French top flight this season.
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