Manchester United teased this summer repeating history after Erik ten Hag had his eye on a beloved Arsenal star.
Manchester United are reportedly considering a bold move to sign Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun this summer. Erik ten Hag is eyeing a new goalscorer as his third signing before the start of the season and Balogun is on his shortlist amid Gunners exit rumours.
However, according to The Independent, a move for the 22-year-old to United this summer is not seen as a realistic possibility.
If he leaves the Emirates Stadium, a move to Serie A giants AC Milan or Inter Milan is seen as far more likely than a Premier League rival. United are continuing talks to sign Atalanta striker Rasmus Hojlund after verbally offering a deal worth £51m this week.
But the report adds that Eintracht Frankfurt’s Randal Kolo Muani remains an option should Ten Hag skip Hojlund.
Balogun’s fee soared on loan at Stade Reims last season, netting 22 goals in 39 appearances in all competitions.
Arsenal are reportedly asking for £50m to part ways with the USMNT star this summer, but suitors will certainly be looking to negotiate that valuation.
Gunners icon Ian Wright will be keen to see Balogun realize the potential of him in north London after backing him to continue his glittering form in France in the Premier League. In March, he told the Wrighty’s House podcast: “Hopefully he can come back to Arsenal at some point and prove himself.”
“He gained new confidence. I think wherever he goes in the league he will do what he does [in France] with the right service.
“It’s the way he takes those risks. His headspace is in a different place right now. He knows he can do it now.
“I guarantee you that if he comes back, he’ll probably build on what he’s been doing in this league.”
Balogun has returned to Arsenal for pre-season, where he has been fiercely contested in Mikel Arteta’s attacking regiment.
The Spanish coach also has Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz and Eddie Nketiah at his disposal this season. Still, Balogun will be confident to make a splash and continue its uptrend.
