Sorry Chelsea! Arsenal FINALLY close in on huge transfer
Tom Weber
- Updated: 24 Aug 2023 15:45 BST
- 4 min read
Arsenal and Monaco are, at last, closing in on an agreement for the transfer of Folarin Balogun, according to a report.
It looks as though the American striker will finally be released from his Arsenal nightmare. Coming off an impressive season in Ligue 1 with Stade Reims, Balogun is keen to be a regular fixture once again this term, but the Gunners already have Eddie Nketiah and Gabriel Jesus, who is now back in training after his latest injury.
This has seen the 22-year-old hand in a transfer request and there has been no shortage of suitors. Arsenal's asking price, however, has always been the main roadblock to his much-desired exit. Indeed, their demands forced Inter to relinquish their interest in Balogun and there have been fears that Arsenal would struggle to grant the striker his wish this summer.
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Now, it seems that he will finally depart after all.
Close to Monaco move
In recent days, the race to sign Balogun has come down to Chelsea and Monaco. His camp have had positive talks with both clubs, but it appears that he will end up back in Ligue 1.
On Wednesday, there were reports that Monaco were readying an improved bid, and Sky now claim that an agreement is close to being reached.
"Monaco are close to a verbal agreement on a fee with Arsenal for striker Folarin Balogun. The French club are then expected to make a formal offer ahead of discussing the structure of the deal and payment terms."
READ: Arsenal have FOUR-MAN shortlist ahead of transfer deadline
Interestingly, the report states that "Arsenal have stood firm on their £50 million valuation," which goes against some of the previous claims that Monaco are prepared to put about £35m on the table.
If true and the Ligue 1 club would have to part with £50m (€58m) or thereabouts, it would see this transfer blow their previous record arrival - James Rodriguez for €45m - out of the water.
