Arsenal will NOT recall Folarin Balogun following Gabriel Jesus injury with striker on loan at Reims in Ligue 1

Arsenal reportedly decide against recalling Folarin Balogun from loan to Reims in light of Gabriel Jesus knee injury.

The 21-year-old joined the Ligue 1 side on a season-long loan this summer where he was one of the standout players in France.

Getty

Rex

Only five players have scored more than his eight goals in the French top flight, with the youngster also adding two assists.

But his future at Stade Auguste Delaune is in question following the injury suffered by Brazilian international Jesus during the World Cup.

Jesus is set to face a three-month absence after undergoing surgery after sustaining a medial ligament injury.

That left Eddie Nketiah as the Gunners’ only recognized centre-forward, with Oleksandr Zinchenko backing his team-mate to shine in Jesus’ absence.

But although there is no replacement for Nketiah, transfer guru Fabrizio Romano says Arsenal have no intention of bringing Balogun back anytime soon.

He tweeted“There are no talks going on between Arsenal and Reims for Folarin Balogun to be recalled in January – it’s quiet despite the rumours.

AFP

“All parties expect Balogun to finish the season on loan at Reims as things stand.”

Arsenal are keen for Nketiah to gain invaluable first-team experience after playing just twice under Mikel Arteta last season.

The Premier League leaders could seek to replace Jesus as they dive into the transfer market in January.

Wantaway Atletico Madrid star Joao Felix has been linked with a move to the Emirates.

Getty

Arsenal have already inquired about Felixwith the player known to have fallen out of favor under Diego Simeone.

And Marca have revealed the North London giants have ‘taken the lead’ in the pursuit of Felix ahead of Aston Villa, Manchester United and Chelsea.

Meanwhile, Arsenal reportedly intend to sign Shakhtar Donetsk winger Mykhaylo Mudryk in New Year.

The 21-year-old is known to be interested in joining the club but an agreement has yet to be reached between the two teams.