The striker is unlikely to be part of Mikel Arteta's plans this season having been left out of the Community Shield victory over Manchester City and Premier League opener against Nottingham Forest. Balogun hasn't featured for the Gunners since the 5-0 pre-season friendly win over the MLS All-Stars on July 19.
Ahead of the weekend, Arteta remained coy over Balogun's future. "I cannot talk about internal things here, sorry," he said. The Arsenal boss' decision to exclude the USMNT star from the matchday squad against Forest was another hint that the 22-year-old will leave the club, with Arteta opting for Eddie Nketiah.
AS Monaco have also struggled to negotiate a deal after seeing a written offer turned down by Arsenal following the Emirates Cup clash between the two sides. Now, though, it has been reported that the Ligue 1 outfit are now in pole position to sign Balogun.
According to The Secret Scout, Monaco are leading the race for Balogun with West Ham United also interested after allowing Gianluca Scamacca to join Atalanta.
A move to Europe has always seemed the most favourable option for Balogun. Last campaign, his 21 goals for Stade de Reims was only bettered by Kylian Mbappe, Jonathan David and Alexandre Lacazette in France. Adapting to life in France was no problem for Balogun and could be exactly why Monaco are keen.
Adi Hutter's side are desperate for a new striker after losing Breel Embolo to injury. Balogun's record in the country last season would only bolster their hopes of challenging Paris Saint-Germain for the Ligue 1 title.
At some point, Balogun will have a decision to make. With the list of clubs keen on his services, a permanent move to France could well be the perfect outcome to this transfer saga.
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