Brighton are one of the clubs who are admirers of Arsenal’s young striker Folarin Balogun according to reports.
Brighton are always on the lookout for a talent youngster they can bring in to develop. In this case though, they could be looking at spending big to bring in one of Ligue 1’s best from last season.
Balogun spent last season on loan at Reims where he impressed heavily, scoring 22 goals in all competitions under English boss Will Still.
The American international forward has already made his intentions clear that he intends to find a starting berth, whether that be at The Emirates or elsewhere.
According to CBS, Inter Milan are ready to offer €40million (£34.4m) for Balogun. However Arsenal want €58m (£50m) to part with the highly rated star.
Brighton are listed as an admirer of the striker with Crystal Palace and West Ham also named as holding an interest in the forward.
A move does seem likely with Gabriel Jesus in his way at Arsenal and that Mikel Arteta has already said that he, “definitely won’t go on loan again”.
Balogun is a hot commodity
Balogun is coming off a huge breakout year at Reims which has resulted in an international call-up to the USA squad, where he has already scored his first goal after just two caps.
His breakout year was so impressive he has multiplied his market value almost ten-fold since last summer.
He has also received huge praise from figures of the game including Thierry Henry. The legendary Frenchman praised Balogun’s “refreshing mindset” as he chose to play abroad over the Championship.
His manager at Reims, Will Still also raved about the Gunner’s forward as he said:
“He’s unbelievable, he has real talent but he is also just a top person,” via the Daily Mail.
It is thought a huge fee will be required to sign the striker which could prove a sticking point for Brighton, but he could be worth it.