Arsenal has turned down Monaco’s initial bid for striker Folarin Balogun, but they have reached an agreement for goalkeeper Matt Turner to join Nottingham Forest. Balogun, valued at €58 million ($64m), is open to leaving the Premier League club for the right price. Inter Milan is also expected to enter the race for his signature. Meanwhile, Turner’s departure from Arsenal paves the way for potentially signing David Raya from Brentford.
Balogun, 22, has two years left on his Arsenal contract. Despite scoring 21 goals in 34 starts during his loan spell with Ligue 1 side Reims last season, he finds himself behind new signing Kai Havertz and Eddie Nketiah in the pecking order for Arsenal’s forward line. Balogun, nursing a foot problem, was not included in the matchday squad for Arsenal’s recent Community Shield victory over Manchester City. Given the lack of anticipated first-team opportunities at the Emirates Stadium, Balogun would prefer a permanent move away.
Turner’s Move to Nottingham Forest
Goalkeeper Matt Turner, 29, is set to depart Arsenal after making only seven appearances since his £5.75m transfer from the New England Revolution last summer. The American international will join Nottingham Forest for an initial fee of £7m, potentially rising to £10m with add-ons. This transfer paves the way for the potential arrival of David Raya from Brentford, who could compete for the No. 1 goalkeeper spot alongside Aaron Ramsdale.
Although Arsenal and Brentford are yet to agree on a fee for goalkeeper David Raya, negotiations are expected to continue with the Gunners confident of reaching an agreement below Brentford’s £40m asking price. Raya’s potential arrival at Arsenal would provide healthy competition for Aaron Ramsdale, who delivered a crucial save in the penalty shootout against Manchester City during the Community Shield, helping Arsenal secure a 4-1 victory.
Arsenal’s rejection of Monaco’s opening offer for Folarin Balogun leaves the door open for other potential suitors, with Inter Milan also rumored to be interested. Balogun’s desire for a permanent move away from Arsenal aligns with his aspirations for regular first-team football. Additionally, goalkeeper Matt Turner’s departure to Nottingham Forest creates space in the squad for the potential arrival of David Raya from Brentford. As negotiations progress, Arsenal remains optimistic about reaching an agreement below Brentford’s asking price. These potential changes in the squad signify Arsenal’s ambition to strengthen their team and compete at the highest level in the upcoming season.
Leave a Reply