Folarin Balogun 'wants first-team guarantees to stay at Arsenal'

Arsenal loanee Folarin Balogun will reportedly only feature for the Gunners next season if he is guaranteed first-team football.

Balogun has been with the North London club since the age of eight, working his way through the youth ranks until he made his senior debut in October 2020.

However, the England Under-21 international has been restricted to just 10 first-team appearances, registering two goals and providing one assist.

With Arsenal keen for Balogun to develop, they sent him to French side Reims on a season-long loan deal, and it has proved to be a successful move for the striker.

Only three players have scored more goals in Ligue 1 than Balogun, who has found the net 18 times in his 29 league appearances this season.

© Reuters

Impressively, Balogun has registered three goals in his last four appearances, including a stoppage-time equaliser from the penalty spot in last weekend's 1-1 draw with Brest.

Having impressed during his time with France, Balogun will provide Arsenal with a difficult decision to make when he returns in the summer.

They may present him with the opportunity to compete with the likes of Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah or look to cash in while his stock is high.

According to Football Insider, Balogun is only interested in staying with Arsenal next season if he receives assurances about regular playing time.

© Reuters

The report claims that the Gunners want to retain Balogun's services, and they are keen to hold discussions with the forward over his future.

Balogun currently has a contract until June 2025, but the North London club have not ruled out the prospect of offering him a new deal on improved terms.

The 21-year-old is expected to be involved when Reims travel to Rennes for Saturday's Ligue 1 encounter.

Arsenal, meanwhile, are preparing for Sunday's away meeting with West Ham United as the Premier League leaders continue their title charge.