Mikel Arteta makes Folarin Balogun stance clear amid interest in Ferran Torres

Mikel Arteta may have hinted at Folarin Balogun's future at Arsenal, following rumours linking Ferran Torres with a move to the Emirates.

Balogun has enjoyed an excellent spell on loan at French side Reims, scoring 19 goals in all competitions.

The 21-year-old is due to return to north London at the end of the season where a decision will be made regarding his future.

Although he has made it clear he will not play second fiddle to Gabriel Jesus or Eddie Nketiah, and is thought to be against another loan move.

Therefore, Arteta must decide whether to make space for the striker in the first-team or cash in while his stock is high.

However, recent reports linking Torres with a move to Arsenal would suggest the Gunners boss has already made his mind up.

Torres to Arsenal?

Arsenal are keen to poach Barcelona forward Torres from Barcelona this summer, as the Catalan giants look to increase their capital, claim talkSPORT.

Barcelona signed Torres from Manchester City in a deal worth £48 million in 2021, but the Spaniard has managed just eight goals in La Liga since his arrival.

Xavi is reportedly willing to part ways with the 23-year-old, as Blaugrana seek to raise funds to bring Lionel Messi back to the Camp Nou.

The Athletic originally revealed Arsenal's interest in Torres back in January. However, Arteta opted to sign Leandro Trossard from Brighton instead.

Nevertheless, Arteta is said to want to add depth to his attack this summer and Torres' ability to play on the left-hand side would provide useful cover for Bukayo Saka.

However, a player of Torres's description could spell the end of the road for Balogun, who will favour first-team football above all else next season.