Arsenal reveal asking price for Lukaku replacement

16 Jul 2023 15:30 BST
3 min read

A silhouette of Folarin Balogun next to the Arsenal badge, set against an abstract red background — © ProShots

Arsenal have slapped an asking price of €47-52 million for Inter-target Folarin Balogun, according to Fabrizio Romano.

According to numerous sources, Inter have now made Balogun their number one striker target this window after they pulled out of the running for Romelu Lukaku.

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Lukaku had been expected to return to Inter for a third time ahead of next season, having spent the 2022-23 campaign on loan from Chelsea.

However, the Nerazzurri suddenly stopped negotiations after being angered by Lukaku’s conduct on Friday when he held talks with Juventus behind their back.

As a result, Inter withdrew their transfer offer to Chelsea and they have now lined up Balogun.

Romano reports that Arsenal are prepared to sell the United States international but are demanding €47-52m for the attacker.

It remains to be seen if Inter will be prepared to pay that, although they are set to recoup around €60m from Man Utd for goalkeeper Andre Onana.

Balogun spent the 2022-23 season on loan at Stade de Reims and and was one of the best players in Ligue 1, scoring 21 league goals.

© ProShots - Lukaku has been in great form

Lukaku now set for Juventus?

Lukaku could now be set for a shock transfer to Juventus, who have tabled a bid worth €40m for the Chelsea striker.

However, the offer only becomes valid when they sell Dusan Vlahovic.

Lukaku finished last season brilliantly for Inter - scoring nine goals in April and May.

He came on as a substitute in Inter’s 1-0 defeat to Man City in the Champions League final in Istanbul. The ex-Man Utd striker missed a big chance to equalise in the closing minutes.

Read more about: Serie A, Premier League, Arsenal, Chelsea, Inter, Folarin Balogun