Transfer Talk: Reims revelation Balogun attracting Inter-est

Folarin Balogun looks set to depart the Emirates this summer and Inter Milan could be his next destination.

The Arsenal striker enjoyed a superb loan spell in France with Reims last season, attracting admiring glances from across Europe. 

However, with Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah jostling for minutes in North London, Balogun appears likely to leave in search of a regular starting berth. 

We take a look at the qualities the USA international would bring to the Nerazzurri.

USA allegiance

Interim USA manager BJ Callaghan was thrilled to have Balogun on board after he switched his international allegiance from England to the United States earlier this year. 

Callaghan said: "I think the things that you see him do at his club that made him have such a great season are the same things that we're seeing him pick up when he comes into our environment." 

The 21-year-old repaid that faith, scoring his first senior international goal in his second appearance during their CONCACAF Nations League final victory over Canada.

Loan ranger

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has previously stated his delight at Balogun's progress with Reims. 

Speaking in February, he said: "[I am] so happy for [Balogun]. He's a boy with a really clear idea of what he wants to do in his career. Really ambitious, really committed and he's really brave. 

"I'm very pleased and obviously when you look at the numbers and what he's doing it's just incredible and very rare to see that. But he's got something special, that's why we gave him a long-term contract and have faith in him. 

"The plan is that he finishes his period there, assess the situation where he is, where we are, then sit down and plan the next chapter in his developing career."

However, Balogun has ruled out the prospect of another loan move.

He said: "I'm not sure [about] the discussions that are going to take place. I'm not sure what's going to happen. But I'm just committed to now. I try to stay present. 

"What I can say is that I definitely won't go on loan again."

Folarin on fire

Balogun's loan spell in France proved exceptionally fruitful, with the New York native netting 21 Ligue 1 goals in 37 appearances — a tally just three players could better. 

Furthermore, only Paris Saint-Germain superstar Kylian Mbappe (79) hit the target with more shots than his 58. 

He was also trusted to be the club's first-choice penalty taker, netting six of his seven spot-kicks.

Balogun in the box

Balogun's underlying numbers paint a picture of a penalty-box predator. 

All 21 of his league goals came from inside the opposition penalty area, as did 105 of his 128 shots. 

Furthermore, his 215 touches in the opposition area saw him rank fourth in the division, while no Ligue 1 player could better his total of three penalties won.

We're Inter him

Inter could certainly use a player of Balogun's talent and profile. 

Edin Dzeko is 37, Joaquin Correa notched just three Serie A goals last term and Romelu Lukaku's loan deal has come to an end, though discussions are reportedly ongoing to bring him back to Italy. 

Lautaro Martinez enjoyed an impressive personal campaign — but the Nerazzurri will need a replacement if he is snapped up this summer. 

Balogun could be just the man to keep the goals flowing at the San Siro.