06 August 2023 , 11:23
609
0
Arsenal academy graduate Folarin Balogun has raised eyebrows among fans for the second time in two days after more suggestive social media activity.
The United States international has been heavily linked with a move to Serie A titans Inter Milan this summer, with regular first-team football at the Emirates unlikely this coming campaign. Balogun has already declared he won't go on loan once again, after a sensational breakout campaign with Stade de Reims last season saw him announce himself on the European stage.
He is expected to part ways with the Gunners before the close of the window this summer, but finding a buyer that will meet Arsenal's £45million price-tag has proven difficult so far. Inter are keen to add Balogun to their ranks, but are hopeful Mikel Arteta's side will lower their asking price.
The speculation touting Balogun with a move to the San Siro went into overdrive on Saturday evening, when the Arsenal ace shared a clip on his Instagram story showing him watching a goal reel of former Inter striker Ronaldo. The striker's cryptic post has convinced some fans on social media that Inter would be Balogun's preferred destination ahead of next month's transfer deadline.
Less than 24 hours later, the 22-year-old got fans talking once again when he bid Marcus Thuram a happy birthday via his own Instagram story. As part of the birthday message, Balogun uploaded a picture of Thuram training for his club side - Inter.
Mikel Arteta's dream Arsenal line up as last-gasp January transfers are secured
Many Arsenal fans are of the belief that the two posts less than a day apart is Balogun's way of trying to force his way out and get his move to Inter. If he is to see his wish granted, he'll have to keep his fingers crossed that the Gunners lower their asking price.
HAVE YOUR SAY! How much should Arsenal aim to sell Balogun for? Comment below
Inter Milan have made Folarin Balogun their no.1 priority striker target and it seems the Arsenal striker wants to join (Getty Images)Inter are thought to be unwilling to pay anymore than £30m for the forward given it is becoming increasingly clear that Balogun wants out of Arsenal anyway.
In the wake of the recent news regarding Gabriel Jesus' knee injury, some had speculated whether this would present Balogun with a chance to stake his claim in the Arsenal fold. However, boss Arteta has since revealed that won't be the case.
The Spaniard was quick to snub the prospect of Balogun being drafted in to replace the former Manchester City star, saying: "The plan with Flo doesn't change at all, but unfortunately, with Gabby, we are not going to have him. We have other options to play with different qualities of players, so we will adapt."
All signs seem to point to Balogun calling time on his Arsenal career this month, but it is up to both the Gunners and Inter to find a deal that suits all parties.