Exit talks underway, with Arsenal to receive tempting bid for forward who’s had enough

Talks between a European giant and the representatives of an Arsenal forward have begun, and how much the Gunners will hold out for has been revealed amid talk of a £34.3m bid.

Arsenal have swelled their attacking ranks over the last two windows, with Kai Havertz following Leandro Trossard into the Emirates. Furthermore, fears Reiss Nelson would leave were averted when the academy graduate signed a new contract on July 6.

As such, Mikel Arteta can now call upon Gabriel Jesus, Eddie Nketiah, Havertz, Gabriel Martinelli, Trossard, Bukayo Saka and Nelson for his frontline, and that’s before Folarin Balogun enters the equation.

The 22-year-old USA international excelled while loaned to French club Reims last season. Balogun notched 21 goals in Ligue 1 alone, though has made it clear he does want want to be loaned out once again.

In quotes carried by the Athletic, Balogun said last month: “What I can say is that I definitely won’t go on loan again.

“I’m not sure (about) the discussions that are going to take place, I’m not sure what’s going to happen.

“But I’m just committed to now, I try to stay present. I obviously want to enjoy the moment with my team and my family.”

A prior Athletic report claimed Balogun will refuse to sign a new contract at Arsenal. His current deal has two years left to run, though amid the uncertainty regarding regular game-time, Balogun is keeping his options open.

A permanent move to RB Leipzig was touted, though the German side have since signed Lois Openda from Lens.

Inter move for Balogun after Lukaku debacle

Instead, it’s Inter Milan who are fast emerging as the likeliest contender to offer Balogun a way out.

Inter are hunting a new frontman after pulling the plug on their pursuit of Romelu Lukaku. The Italian giant took that decision after learning Lukaku was engaging in talks with bitter rival Juventus at the same time as speaking with Inter.

With that avenue closed, a fresh update from the Athletic has revealed Inter have opened talks with Balogun’s camp. Discussions between Arsenal and Inter are yet to begin, though that could soon change.

Indeed, a bid of around €40m (£34.3m) ‘is expected to arrive’. That will give Arsenal something to ponder given Balogun may be no higher than fourth choice at striker back the Emirates.

Recouping a sizeable sum would also give Arsenal free reign to move for a second addition in midfield. If Thomas Partey leaves, the Gunners want a high calibre replacement. Romeo Lavia of Southampton is in their sights.

On the subject of cost, it’s claimed Arsenal value Balogun closer to the £50m mark.

Whether they’ll be willing to compromise, or whether Inter stretch towards that number anyway, should become clear in the coming days and weeks.

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