Arsenal Set To Release Nigerian Striker After Breakdown In Contract Talks

Arsenal are set to allow US-born Nigerian striker Folarin Balogun to leave the Emirates this summer following breakdown over a new contract agreement.

Balogun, 18, who is yet to make his senior debut for Arsenal has impressed for the Gunners’ Under 23s, scoring 10 goals in 16 appearances this season.

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The club reportedly turned down a £5million offer for Balogun from Brentford in January in the hope of agreeing a new contract with him.

But according to The Athletic after failing to make a breakthrough in talks, Arsenal are ready to sell him when the transfer window reopens as long as a suitable offer arrives.

Balogun’s current deal expires at the end of next season and the Gunners would only receive a limited about of compensation for him, especially if he moves abroad.

Mikel Arteta has given chances to a number of young players since replacing Unai Emery last December, but Balogun is yet to make the step up. 

The New York-born forward is said to have decided his future lies elsewhere, with ‘a host of Europe’s leading clubs’ interested in him.

Arsenal will hope to insert a hefty sell-on clause in any deal they do this summer after seeing a number of youngsters – including Serge Gnabry and Donyell Malen – shine after leaving the Emirates to play on the continent.