Inter Milan set their sights on signing Folarin Balogun

Inter Milan have turned their attention to signing Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun after ending their pursuit of Chelsea ace Romelu Lukaku, Gazzetta dello Sport claim (page 8).

The Nerazzurri were recently in negotiations with the Blues for Lukaku, and were willing to pay €40 million including add-ons. However, talks ended after trust issues with the player.

The Belgium international was reportedly in contact with Juventus in the lead-up to the Champions League final. The Nerazzurri found out the same earlier this week.

Hence, the San Siro giants are looking elsewhere to bolster their strike force, and Gazzetta dello Sport claim that Balogun is now the priority target for the Nerazzurri.

Simone Inzaghi’s side are willing to pay €40m for the Gunners graduate, but it is claimed that Arsenal could hold out for a higher fee to part ways with the 22-year-old.

Arsenal should demand more for Balogun’s exit

Balogun had a superb season on loan with Reims last term. He netted an impressive 22 goals and provided another three assists for the French Ligue 1 club.

Despite his progress, he is not considered a starter by manager Mikel Arteta due to the competition from Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah. The duo are his preferred strikers.

Hence, Balogun is expected to leave in the quest for regular game time. Arsenal value him at £50m (€58m). In our view, they should stay firm on their asking price.

Inter have now entered the race for his services, but there should be more interest from elite European clubs during the back end of the summer transfer window.

Regardless of whom Arsenal sell Balogun to, they should try and include a buy-back clause. If not, they should get the first refusal option on the USA international.

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