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No decision is expected on the long-term future of Arsenal’s Folarin Balogun until the summer, as the striker continues to shine on loan at Reims.
Balogun scored a last-gasp equaliser against Paris Saint-Germain on Sunday night, to continue Reims’ unbeaten run under young manager Will Still.
The 21-year-old, who is spending the season on loan at the Ligue 1 side, has now scored 11 goals in 19 appearances for Reims, one fewer than Neymar and only two shy of top scorer Kyllian Mbappe.
Still and Reims are huge admirers of Balogun but sources in France say the club are resigned to losing him in the summer, with the expectation that Balogun will return to Arsenal for discussions over his future.
The striker joined the north London club aged 10 and signed a new, long-term deal back in 2021.
Balogun imitated Thierry Henry with his celebration at Parc des Princes and revealed he had spoken to the Gunners legend before the match with PSG.
Arsenal – who have been busy on deadline day bringing in Chelsea midfielder Jorginho – plan to let him develop in France, where the 21-year-old has enjoyed a taste of regular playing opportunities at the top level.
Balogun has started 16 Ligue 1 matches upfront for Reims but should he stay at Arsenal next season, he will face stiff competition from the likes of Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah.