Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun posts cryptic Instagram update after Chelsea transfer talks

Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun has posted a cryptic update on his Instagram account after reports that he held transfer talks with Chelsea.

Balogun returned to the Emirates Stadium for the beginning of pre-season after a successful campaign on loan at Ligue 1 side Reims, where he scored 21 goals in 37 league games.

But it was reported that the Gunners could decide to sell the striker if they could not guarantee him first team football.

Balogun suffered an ankle injury on Arsenal's pre-season tour of the United States in July, and was not named in the squad for their opening weekend Premier League win over Nottingham Forest.

According to talkSPORT, the player's representatives have held talks with Chelsea over a potential transfer this summer.

It is claimed that Fulham and Monaco are also interested in signing him.

Now, Balogun has posted a cryptic update on his Instagram account.

Balogun posts cryptic Instagram update amid Arsenal transfer reports

Taking to his Instagram story, the 21-year-old United States international posted a photo from inside London Colney, Arsenal's training centre, as he nears a return to action.

The photo was accompanied by a cryptic 'thumbs-up' caption.

Balogun on Instagram pic.twitter.com/mEEq6UMPev

— Doc (@karthikadhaigal) August 21, 2023

According to the Daily Mirror, Chelsea have been informed of Arsenal's £40 million asking price for Balogun this summer.

While Arteta is said to be happy to sanction a departure for the striker, the club's need to sell may be heightened following the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury suffered by new signing Jurrien Timber.

The Netherlands defender could miss the rest of the season - and Arteta has spoken about the need for extra reinforcements.

He explained: "We didn't plan for this injury, so we have to assess now what the options are and the best way to get the best out of the players.

"I cannot control anything that is not here. We are always open and we have to always be open to react if something happens, not only with an injury but with the market as well and that's what we are doing."