Prolific Arsenal star identified as ‘concrete’ option for Serie A giant as replacement for Man Utd target

Things are expected to get busy at Arsenal over the next few weeks and one of their younger stars is now being linked with a move to Juventus.

Folarin Balogun has had a terrific loan spell with Reims this season, scoring 21 goals in 37 Ligue 1 matches.

The 21-year-old is attracting plenty of interest and Juventus have been the latest club to throw their hat in the ring.

As the future of Juventus forward Dusan Vlahovic is up in the air, the Italian side are looking for his replacement this summer.

The latest reports have linked them with Balogun and Mikel Arteta will have a big call to make over whether or not to sell.

Rudy Galetti recently clarified the interest: “Juventus put in their sights Folarin Balogun.

“The Arsenal player – this season on loan at Reims – could become a concrete option in case of farewell of Vlahovic.”

Both Manchester United and Chelsea have been linked with a move for Vlahovic. Due to their financial situation, Juventus could be forced to sell some of their biggest stars.

Angel Di Maria’s departure has already been confirmed and he could be the first of many to leave the Italian club this year.

With no Champions League football next year and looming financial issues, it could be a sticky summer for the Italian outfit.

As they look to rebuild their squad with the future in mind, it makes sense they are looking at a player like Balogun.

Arteta has big decision to make

Plenty of Arsenal fans will want to see Balogun being given a chance next season. He showcased his worth while out on loan and now seems ready for the next step.

However, his value is currently at an all-time high following his spell with Reims. If he doesn’t maintain the same consistency next season, his value could plummet.

Arteta will have this in mind when considering what to do with the forward. If Arsenal do decide to cash in, they would be wise to insert a buy-back clause in his contract.

The potential with Balogun is clear to see. However, with the likes of Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah to contend with, he is not a guaranteed starter at Arsenal.

Arteta himself has been pleased with the development of Balogun and will not rush into any rash decisions involving the forward.

“I’m so happy for him,” Arteta told the club website. “He’s a boy that has a really clear idea of what he wants to do with his career. He’s really ambitious, really committed and really brave.

“When you look at the numbers and what he is doing, it’s just incredible. It’s very rare to see that. But he’s got something special, that’s why we decided to give him a long-term contract and have faith in him.”

Balogun’s contract with Arsenal runs until the summer of 2025 and so the club are in a strong position to negotiate his value.

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