Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun was on Manchester United radar this summer
Manchester United considered making a move for Arsenal star Folarin Balogun in the ongoing transfer window, according to the Independent (h/t Mirror).
The USMT forward spent the 2022/23 term on loan at Stade de Reims and caught a lot of people’s attention. In the previous campaign, the 22-year-old found the back of the net 22 times in 39 appearances in all competitions for the Ligue 1 outfit.
To that end, Balogun’s form alerted the Red Devils to his qualities. However, the Gunners’ £50 million price tag on the striker’s head dissuaded the Old Trafford side from making a move.
As things stand, the youngster could still end up parting ways with Arsenal this summer. The North London side are expected to accept a lower offer from an overseas club, with Inter Milan and AC Milan eyeing a move for the USMNT star.
Balogun made his way through the youth ranks at the Gunners. However, the forward has found game time hard to come by at the Emirates Stadium side.
At the moment, Mikel Aretat has the likes of Gabriel Martinelli and Eddie Nketiah at his disposal. Therefore, it remains to be seen whether the American national will find a place in the Spanish gaffer’s plans ahead of next season.
For now, United have Anthony Martial as the only natural option for the number nine position. Unfortunately, the French national has had multiple fitness issues since Erik ten Hag’s arrival to Manchester.
During pre-season, the Dutch manager has been experimenting with playing Jadon Sancho as the striker. Marcus Rashford was also deployed up front on a number of occasions in the previous campaign.
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Balogun seems like a promising prospect. However, he has had just one decent season in the top flight. Thus, considering Arsenal’s demands, it was wise for the Old Trafford side to turn their attention away from the USMNT star.
