Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun 'attracted' to other clubs as five potential buyers named

Arsenal face a significant stumbling block if they are to keep Folarin Balogun at the club for next season, according to esteemed reporter David Ornstein.

Balogun is currently on loan at Ligue 1 side Reims, where he has netted 18 league goals this season. Only PSG's Kylian Mbappe and Lille's Jonathan David (both 19) have scored more.

His goals have helped Will Still's side to remain within touching distance of a European spot, although a run of only one win in five games has affected their chances.

It has been a hugely successful season for Balogun, who struggled to establish himself at Championship side Middlesbrough last season, and his form has put him in the picture to potentially compete for a starting spot at the Gunners next season.

Ornstein claims it is this that could decide where the 21-year-old plays his club football next season - with major European teams said to be circling.

European clubs 'interested' in Balogun

Writing for The Athletic, the reporter adds that Balogun 'wants to continue operating as a first-choice striker' - and hopes he will have the opportunity to do so with Arsenal.

However, Gabriel Jesus is currently the first-choice centre forward under Mikel Arteta, with Eddie Nketiah as backup for when the Brazilian is unavailable.

It is claimed that Balogun does not want to be loaned out by the Gunners for a third time - which effectively means he will either be an important part of the first team squad at the Emirates Stadium, or he will be playing for another club.

And AC Milan, Inter Milan, Marseille, Monaco and RB Leipzig are all reportedly interested in signing him and, according to Ornstein, are prepared to assure him that he will be given a starting spot.

With two years left on his Gunners contract, this summer will be a big one in more ways than one for the young striker, who has achieved exactly what he set out to do in Ligue 1, even if it may not end up being enough to start regularly for Arsenal.

Speaking to French outlet Onze Mundial last month about why he took the move, Balogun explained: "I knew it was going to be difficult and there were a lot of risks, but I have a lot of confidence in myself. When I make a decision and focus on it, there's no reason it shouldn't work."

Topics: Arsenal, Football, Transfers

Ryan Smart

Live in constant hope of the top flight as a Preston North End fan. Written in the past for SPORF, GiveMeSport and more.