Folarin Balogun is now training on his own at Arsenal after reportedly holding talks about joining Chelsea this summer.
That is according to The Athletic.
So, what is the latest on Folarin Balogun and Chelsea? Let’s take a look…
What’s the story?
Well – according to Football Transfers – the United States international’s representatives recently spoke to Chelsea about a move to Stamford Bridge.
The Blues are interested in Balogun after he impressively scored 22 goals on loan at Reims from Arsenal last season.
Arsenal’s Hale End graduate wants regular first-team football next term after his standout campaign in France, although he is unlikely to be the main main under Mikel Arteta with Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah ahead of him.
Therefore, an exit could be on.
Balogun – who the Athletic believe is valued at £50m by Arsenal – is now training alone, away from the rest of Arteta’s group, having been an unused substitute in a friendly against Manchester United on Saturday.
By the looks of it, Arsenal are preparing to sell the American, although it remains to be seen where he ends up.
Chelsea face Inter Milan competition for Balogun
While Balogun looks likely to leave the Emirates Stadium, Chelsea do not have a free run at his signature.
A story from The Athletic claims that Inter Milan are expected to make a bid for the 22-year-old, after deciding not to sign Romelu Lukaku from Chelsea.
The Belgian was a priority target for Inter Milan, but angered the Italian giants by also speaking to their rivals AC Milan and Juventus.
Of course, Chelsea can offer Balogun the chance to remain in London, although Inter Milan – who finished as UEFA Champions League finalists – can offer him Champions League football.
Be sure to keep an eye on this situation, as anything could happen.