Nigerian Folarin Balogun has been sent by Arsenal on a season-long loan to Ligue 1 side Stade de Reims.
The forward, who grew through the ranks of the Arsenal youth system, made two Premier League appearances for the senior side in the first phase of last season.
In the second phase in January, Balogun joined Middlesbrough where he made 18 Championship appearances, netting 3 goals.
Like Reiss Nelson, who went for a season-long loan to Feyenoord and returned to become part of coach Mikel Arteta’s squad for the season, Balogun could become an integral part of the Gunners’ squad in the 2023-2024 campaign.
According to a statement by Arsenal on Balogun, who is eligible to play for the Nigerian senior men’s national team, “The 21-year-old forward joined our academy in 2012 aged 10 and showcased an impressive goal-scoring record throughout youth football.
“The 2020/21 season saw Flo [Balogun] make his first-team debut, as well as signing a long-term contract with the club.
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“The American-born striker made an immediate impact, following his breakthrough when he scored twice in the Europa League from just five substitute appearances.
“Flo [Balogun] spent the second half of last season on loan at Championship side Middlesbrough, where he made 21 appearances in all competitions, scoring three goals and assisting three times.
“Everyone at Arsenal wishes Flo [Balogun] all the best this coming season with Stade de Reims.
“The loan deal is subject to the completion of regulatory processes,” the statement concluded.
Consequent to completing this deal, Balogun said his commitment remains intact.
“A different red and white but same commitment,” Balogun said.
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