Mikel Arteta reveals big plan for Ligue 1 red-hot Folarin Balogun at Arsenal

Having previously developed a reputation as one of academy football’s most prolific attackers, USA-born Balogun made his Arsenal debut in a 2020 Europa League clash against Dundalk before scoring his first goal for the club just a month later.

Whilst he subsequently penned a long-term contract until 2025 at the Emirates Stadium and made his Premier League debut in 2021, Balogun struggled to impact proceedings at the top level and he was sent out on loan to Championship outfit Middlesbrough in January of last year but would score just three goals on Teesside.

He has since gone on to massively impress in France at Reims under the stewardship of boss Will Still and the prospect of Balogun returning to North London now appears an enticing one as Arteta signalled to reporters back in 2021 that he has plans for the academy graduate to play a significant part for Arsenal in years to come.

“We have been extremely impressed with Flo this season,” the Spaniard told Football London.

“He has continually shown his natural ability in many training sessions with us and we have been equally impressed with his early integration into the first-team squad on matchdays.

“He has given us glimpses of the performances and of course his two goals already for the first team. The hard work starts here for Flo and we are all looking forward to supporting and working with him in the years to come.”