Born in the United States to Nigerian parents, and an under 21 cap at England level, Arsenal twenty year old Folarin Balogun has stated very clearly he wants to leave north London. That could be permanently, or on loan in January, and Swansea City are amongst a host of clubs wanting his signature.

The swans came close to securing Balogun in August but circumstances dictated he could feature in the Arsenal first team this season. Unfortunately only one EFL cup appearance and two premier league appearances have led the youngster to weigh up his options.

Balogun has openly stated “I do feel like I am ready for a new challenge but I am not sure what that might be, it might be a loan, or if I am needed at Arsenal then I am here and the gaffer knows that. I am definitely open to a new challenge but it is something that whatever that challenge is I will be ready. I know the potential I could have and that I need to achieve is massive. I haven't achieved it yet. What I see now I would just describe as glimpses, things that need to be worked on and can be improved. The performances I am putting in are all I can do at the moment. I know that I am going in the right direction."

If improvement is on the young gunners agenda then Russell Martin at the swans could well assist him in his goal for self improvement. Ethan Laird, another young player on loan from Manchester United has improved immensely at Championship level since joining Swansea City in August.

Balogun has scored consistently in Arsenal’s development sides, but even though many compare him to Ian Wright he has yet to cement a place in the first team. The New York born forward is now openly alerting clubs of his availability, and his desire to find a place away from the Emirates is now out in the open. Brentford nearly sealed a transfer earlier on in the year but talks broke down when Arsenal promised him more game time and gave him a long term contract.

However, now Balogun seems to have lost patience with Arsenal. He is now determined to leave in January. As an attacking option for any club he signs for, and in Swansea terms he plays a more advanced role than Jamie Paterson, if the swans renew their interest he could prove valuable in what many are now believing is turning in to a very positive season.The swans who are struggling to accommodate Michael Obafemi and his reluctance to be a part of Russell Martin’s vision, and as a result could well be back in for Balogun in a few weeks time.

In January it’s all about signing players that are better than you already have, and in Balogun’s case there is most certainly evidence he possesses enough to be a success at Swansea.

Transfer talk begins, and not on New Year’s Day.

Photographs licensed from Reuters

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