A “close duel” between West Ham and French clubs Monaco and Lens is expected to Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun, according to Calciomercato.
The Italian publication reported on its website on Thursday (10 August) that the trio will battle it out for Balogun after Inter Milan pulled out of the race.
The 22-year-old USA international scored 22 goals in all competitions last season while on loan at Ligue 1 side Reims.
“Inter have decided to withdraw from the race for Folarin Balogun,” according to Calciomercato. “A decision that has already been communicated to both the Arsenal management and the player’s entourage.
“Now a close duel between Monaco, Lens and West Ham is expected for the centre-forward.”
West Ham could definitely do with a new striker this summer, with the East London club having just sold Gianluca Scamacca to Atalanta.
The future of fellow forward Michail Antonio meanwhile is up in the air, and his exit would leave David Moyes with just Danny Ings and youngster Divin Mubama as his only striking options.
Step forward Arsenal man Balogun. The 22-year-old enjoyed a stunning spell in France last time out, banging in 21 goals from his 37 Ligue 1 appearances, adding another goal in the Coupe de France.
Given the presence of star man Gabriel Jesus in North London, regular playing time looks hard to come by for Balogun under Mikel Arteta, and the youngster should be doing all he can to force through an exit.
At the same time, West Ham should absolutely be doing all they can to secure his services, with money available following the £105million sale of Declan Rice.
