Arteta Speaks On Folarin Balogun Contract Negotiations

Mikel Arteta has offered an update on Arsenal’s contract negotiations with teenage prospect Folarin Balogun.

Pressed for the latest update on Balogun, Arteta told reporters:

“I’m still very positive that Flo is going to stay with us and it’s what we’re trying to do as a club, and it’s what I’m trying to do as a manager.

“As far as I know from last week, the player wants to be here, so I’m positive. I think he’s made some big progress in a few months.”

Arteta’s update will come as a blow to Balogun’s suitors, chief among which are believed to be RB Leipzig and Liverpool.

In total, 15 clubs in England and further afield are interested in the 19-year-old, according to The Guardian .

The United States-born player’s last appearance for Arsenal came in the Carabao Cup quarter-final defeat by Manchester City in December, when he made an appearance off the bench.

Since then, Balogun has returned to the Under-23s and captained the side to a victory over Brighton U23 and draws with Tottenham U23 and Chelsea U23.