Manager Mikel Arteta has declared that Arsenal has held favourable discussions with the agency in charge of the affairs of Folarin Balogun, theoretically paving the way for the striker to lengthen his contract with the north London club.
Balogun was born in New York City and migrated to England as a 2-year-old child, growing up in London. His parents were born in Nigeria.
Born in the United States to Nigerian parents and raised in England, Balogun is eligible to represent all three nations at the international level.
The Anglo-American-Nigerian striker is represented by British-based Nigerian agent Emeka Obasi, who also looks after Super Eagles Alex Iwobi, Ola Aina, Josh Maja and Joe Aribo.
Balogun is available to extend his stay at Arsenal but he needs to play more and that’s the priority for the striker and his agent.
The Hale End Academy product has not figured for the Gunners first team since the defeat to Manchester City in the Carabao Cup when he was introduced in the 77th minute.
On whether Folarin Balogun is distancing himself from the club, Arteta told reporters at Wednesday’s press conference before the Premier League clash vs Burnley: “I wouldn’t say so. I think I am pretty positive about it and every time I spoke to him, he mentions the same thing, that he’s determined to stay here and he wants to stay here.
“We have some positive conversations with his agent as well and Edu is in charge of that.
“He’s been spending a lot of time and energy to try to get the deal to happen because it’s important for us to keep our talent in the house, and what we can guarantee is that we’re doing everything we can to keep him.”
Balogun missed Arsenal’s last two matches in the Premier League 2 against Liverpool and Manchester City due to fitness issues.