Folarin Balogun says he doesn’t feel the need to prove himself as an Arsenal player despite his future being under the spotlight.
The US striker scored 22 goals on loan at Reims last season but now faces completion from Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah in the Arsenal forward line.
The Athletic reported earlier today that Inter Milan are interested in signing the 22-year-old and a bid is expected to land soon, although Arsenal are understood to be looking for £50 million for the player.
“I obviously went away and the point was to prove I could play first team football,” said Balogun.
“I feel I was able to do that and show people I can play at that level.
“I think with me coming back it’s not really much of a situation where I think I can need to try extra hard to prove something, I think it’s a decision that’s not really with me.
“Whatever happens I’m cool with it.”
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The Arsenal forward has spent the previous two seasons on loan at Middlesbrough and Reims and enjoyed a particularly successful spell in Ligue 1 last term, finishing the campaign with 22 goals in 39 appearances in all competitions.
Balogun’s Arsenal deal runs until 2025 but he has featured just twice in the Premier League for the north London club since making his debut in 2020.
Arsenal signed forward Gabriel Jesus last summer, and Eddie Nketiah deputised while Jesus was sidelined during the 2022-23 season.
Arsenal are next in action on Thursday where they will play the MLS All-Stars at the Audi Field Stadium.
GO DEEPER
Folarin Balogun offers Arsenal something different - so should he stay or should he go?
(Photo: Getty Images)
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