Folarin Balogun close to Monaco transfer from Arsenal

Hale ends latest superstar, Folarin Balogun, looks set to depart the Gunners, for a fee of €45m as per Fabrice Hawkins, David Ornstein & others.

Ever since his return from a magical season in France for Stade De Reims where he net 21 goals in 37 appearances, questions have loomed over the youngster, for where his future lies, and the answer seems to be back in France, to AS Monaco.

It’s not just on loan where the forward has made headlines. The previously England U21 international, has already made 2 appearances for the United States, after picking them earlier in the year.

A very marketable asset, who epitomises a modern day forward. Someone with great movement, an eye for goal, a good linker of play, an effective channel runner, who’s very progressive with 8.46 progressive passes per 90 (fbref).

Balogun has made 2 senior appearances for the Gunners, and with Gabriel Jesus, Eddie Nketiah, among Leandro Trossard & Kai Havertz, all ahead in the striker position, it’s only right Flo does what’s best for his career.

Monaco is a great career choice for the 22 year old. A deal which works for all parties, especially after Breel Embolo, sustained an ACL, leaving the French Giants, especially short in this position.

A club which keeps options open long term, allows him to continue in a league he thrived in last year, and one which suites Arsenal;

A club who can’t offer him the first team football he deserves. I especially appreciate this move personally. Players shouldn’t be looked down upon for prioritising their careers, and it’s as simple as, it’s a great fee for Arsenal, especially being Homegrown.

Ontop of promoting youngsters to the first team, it’s a clubs responsibility to develop that player on a wider scale, to find a move which suites all parties, and one which suites the players development path.

Presuming this move does come to full fruition, I wish Balogun the very best of luck, and look forward to seeing what he can achieve.