Six-time French champions confirm interest in signing Arsenal's Super Eagles-eligible forward

Six-time French top-flight champions Stade de Reims have confirmed that they are working on a deal to sign Arsenal's Nigeria-eligible centre-forward Folarin Balogun in the summer transfer window.

Jean-Pierre Caillot, president of Reims, is hopeful of completing a deal with Arsenal that would see the England U21 international spend the entirety of the 2022-2023 season on loan at the Ligue 1 club.

Balogun was not given minutes in Arsenal's last five pre-season fixtures, fueling speculation that he is not in the plans of manager Mikel Arteta for the forthcoming season and a loan deal is imminent.

Reims are looking to sign the Hale End Academy graduate as a replacement for Hugo Ekitike who moved to Paris Saint-Germain this summer.

"He is of interest to us in the form of a loan. Even if the finalization of this file is a little slow, we remain on the alert, " Jean-Pierre Caillot told L'Union via FootSur7.

Balogun returned to Arsenal after a successful loan to Middlesbrough in January where he made twenty-one appearances in all competitions, contributing to six goals which include three goals and three assists.

However, chances of a regular game-time are not guaranteed with the Gunners' signing of Brazilian striker Gabriel Jesus and the renewal of fellow Hale End graduate Eddie Nketiah's contract.

Balogun signed a new four-year contract with Arsenal in 2021 has made ten total appearances for the first team.

Sofoluwe Mayowa

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