AC Milan are planning on investing in a new centre-forward in the summer window and they have Folarin Balogun on their wish list, a report claims.
This morning’s edition of La Gazzetta dello Sport (as seen below) reports that Olivier Giroud is almost certain to remain at Milan for another season but what is equally obvious is that a new centre-forward should arrive to carry the baton in the future.
Giroud will turn 37 in September and the Rossoneri know they cannot logically cannot think of relying only on him as they have done for most of this season, so it is necessary to diversify the department.
The recent signings of Mario Mandzukic and Divock Origi – cheap but experienced players – have not brought the desired results and that is why there is an instinct to invest in a younger profile. Folarin Balogun of Arsenal is the name in mind.
He is currently on loan to Stade Reims in Ligue 1 where he has scored 15 goals in 25 league appearances, putting him three behind the top scorer Kylian Mbappé. At the end of the season Balogun will return to Arsenal, where he will find competition from ‘false nine’ type players like Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah.
This could become an advantage for Milan, who instead need a proper striker. The Gunners have currently put a valuation of €20-25m on Balogun, 21, but between now and June the price could rise. Qualifying for Champions League (or not) could make the difference as it would define Milan’s budget.
That guy is legit, lets all dream that all PL teams are blind and don’t try to sign him.
If Milan made an inquiry about him tomorrow, they would ask for 35-40M. If Milan doesn’t have the money Bournemouth or another club will have…