Why did Arsenal agree to sell USMNT star Folarin Balogun? Mikel Arteta explains €40m transfer to Monaco

The United States international is, after taking in a productive 21-goal loan spell at Ligue 1 side Reims last season, heading back to France to continue his development. The 22-year-old striker had made it clear that he wanted regular game time in 2023-24.

With Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah already on the books at Emirates Stadium, Arsenal were unable to find room for Balogun within their plans. They have now made a tidy profit on a product of their famed academy system, while also including a sell-on clause in their deal with Monaco, and everybody is happy.

Arteta told reporters when asked why the Gunners allowed Balogun to leave: “We didn’t have enough space for him in our squad for him to get the minutes that he needs. He did really well last year in his loan period and he’s evolving in the right way. He wanted the chance to continue developing his career. He’s going to a really good club, they have huge experience in developing talent – as everybody knows – so really happy for him.”

Balogun did briefly figure for Arsenal in pre-season, after helping the USMNT to CONCACAF Nations League glory, and will be eager to show those in north London that he is capable of becoming a superstar forward after packing his bags on a permanent basis.