Monaco ahead of Chelsea in race for Arsenal's Balogun

Talks have continued promisingly between Arsenal and Monaco, after the Gunners rejected the French side's opening offer for striker Folarin Balogun.

This comes according to 'Sky Sports', who also report that the Ligue 1 side are yet to go back with a second offer, but it is believed that talks are aimed at agreeing a general amount for the fee before finalising a payment structure.

The same outlet reports that personal terms would not be an issue, and the 22-year-old would be open to returning to the French league, where he impressed last season with Reims on loan.

Monaco are not the only ones with their eyes on the young talent though, as Chelsea also remain interested in the US international. However, the Gunners are asking for a minimum £50 million for their academy graduate, and this could likely be higher for the Blues, due to the risks of selling to a Premier League rival. 

Chelsea have also reached what appears to be a stalemate over a departure for their own striker Romelu Lukaku, who is training away from the first team. The Belgian prefers a move to Juventus, but they currently don't have the financial firepower to negotiate with the English side for a permanent move over a loan.

 

August 21, 2023