Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta reveals latest on Folarin Balogun contract situation

The teenager’s contract is due to expire in the summer

George Sessions
Thursday 07 January 2021 11:32 GMT
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Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun
Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun (Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

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Manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed Arsenal are working hard to keep Folarin Balogun at the club.

Teenage forward Balogun could face Newcastle on Saturday as the Gunners get the defence of their FA Cup crown underway this weekend.

But with his contract due to expire in the summer, the academy graduate may depart the Emirates shortly.

A number of rival clubs, including Liverpool, are understood to be interested in the 19-year-old but Arteta says it is still the club’s hope that he remains.

Follow the latest Arsenal transfer news, rumours and gossip

"The club wants to make a deal, the manager wants to make a deal, the player wants to stay and I'm not sure about the agent," Arteta insisted.

"We are negotiating with an agent, with a player that wants to stay at the club and we need to find an agreement.

"I'm telling you that we are doing everything we can to keep him here and hopefully from the other part they are doing the same and in the same interest, which is the player's interest which is to stay at the football club and be successful with us."

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