Folarin Balogun is one club’s top target for the January transfer window should Arsenal decide to let the striker leave on loan, according to a report from The Sun.
Balogun finds himself in a strange position at the Emirates. He has more than proved that he is devastating at under-23 level. Mikel Arteta described him as ‘unique’ late last season.
However, he is yet to establish himself in the Gunners first-team. He actually started on the opening day as Arteta’s men faced Brentford.
Unfortunately, he has not featured in the Premier League since Arsenal’s second game of the campaign. And with that, a January exit could be on the cards.
The Sun reports that both Middlesbrough and Sheffield United would like to take Balogun on loan. In fact, it is claimed that new Boro boss Chris Wilder has made the 20-year-old his top target for the winter window.
Championship loan could be next step for Balogun at Arsenal
Balogun’s record for the under-23s is simply outrageous. Again this year, he has scored 10 times in eight appearances in Premier League 2.
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That form suggests that his record for Kevin Betsy’s side is not going to be enough on its own to earn him a chance in Arteta’s plans.
He could wait for injuries to present him with another opportunity. But actually, a loan move could be the smartest way forward for the England under-21 international.
Despite not playing regularly, Eddie Nketiah’s stock seemed to rise after spending time away at Leeds in 2019. He found himself in Arteta’s plans upon his return.
That should inspire Balogun should Boro and the Blades come calling in January.