Mikel Arteta set for 70million huge transfer decision amid uncertainty of highly rated talent

According to reports, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is undecided about the future of Folarin Balogun. This season, the striker is tearing it up in Ligue 1 on loan at Reims.

Balogun came up through Arsenal’s academy and was a prolific goalscorer throughout the age groups. He was on the verge of leaving Arsenal in 2021 before signing a new contract just months before his previous one expired.

Last season, he struggled to get game time and spent the second half of the season at Middlesbrough. The New York-born star was frequently used out of position last season, but has started as a central striker for Reims this season.

With 14 goals, Balogun is the top scorer in France’s top division. He is one place ahead of PSG superstar Kylian Mbappe and former Arsenal captain Alexandre Lacazette.

Balogun is expected to return to the Emirates in the summer, after his value skyrocketed in recent months. However, according to The Sun, Arteta is unsure what to do with the 21-year-old.

Arsenal’s main striker options are Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah. Arteta must decide whether there is room in his squad for a third center-forward.

According to the report, the Gunners may be able to cash in on Balogun, as there will be plenty of interest in his signature. Reims is said to have tried to make the deal permanent in January, but Arsenal turned it down.

Balogun has two and a half years left on his Emirates contract, so there is no rush to sell. It remains to be seen whether he will accept a backup role next season.

He joined Arsenal when he was eight years old and will make his senior debut in the Europa League in October 2020. He scored twice in the competition that season but hasn’t scored in a Gunners shirt since.

Balogun recently discussed his future at Arsenal and stated that he will be in a better position after his loan spell at Reims. He told L’Equipe: “Arsenal is my family. The club represents brotherhood and unity to me.

“There, I learned always to push my limits. I recall from training a constant desire to advance on a technical level.

“I believe that by the time I return, I will be in a better position to compete than I was before I left. I realised there would be some things I would struggle with, which I believe is a good thing. It assists you in dealing with things that make you uncomfortable, which is critical.”