Inter Milan are ‘keen to land Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun’ this summer’

Inter Milan have expressed interest in securing a deal for Arsenal’s returning striker Folarin Balogun, according to reports in Italy.

The 21-year-old recently completed a successful loan spell at French side Reims where he bagged 22 goals in 39 appearances.

Balogun’s performances placed European clubs on alert to his potential, with Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta also wanting to take a more in-depth look at the club’s academy product.

Mail Sport revealed at the start of June that the young talent is a target for both Milan clubs and it appears Inter are leading the race for his signature, according to Gazzetta Italia.

Face-to-face talks between Inter’s sporting director Piero Ausilio, agents and Arsenal staff are said to have taken place on Thursday, with further discussions scheduled for Friday before he heads back to Italy.

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta could see one of his side’s upcoming talents depart for Italy

It is reportedly unlikely that a deal for Balogun will be struck before the weekend, however Inter are apparently ok with this situation as there was belief a transfer wouldn’t be completed during the first round of talks.

The Champions League finalists want to bring in a formidable striker, with Edin Dzeko set to leave the club amid interest from Fenerbache and negotiations ongoing with Chelsea to bring Romelu Lukaku back for another loan spell.

Inter reportedly want Balogun on a loan deal but Arsenal are apparently keen to try and secure a permanent move for their promising striker as they attempt to bolster their own ranks in the transfer window.

Balogun is wanted by Inter Milan following an impressive goalscoring season in France

The Gunners are supposedly holding out for £40million, but that figure is expected to be negotiated between the two parties as Inter try to find a middle ground.

Balogun is keen to continue playing regular first-team football next season following a breakthrough year in France and would be down the pecking order of Arsenal’s first-choice attackers should he stay at the Emirates.

The player is currently in America, taking part in the CONCACAF Nations League with team USA after deciding to switch national team allegiances from England.

He started in USA’s 3-0 victory over Mexico on Thursday evening in a match that was overshadowed by outrageous scenes as four red cards were brandished.