A statement via Arsenal.com read: "Folarin Balogun has joined Ligue 1 side AS Monaco in a permanent transfer. The 22-year-old forward joined us at the age of ten and developed through our Academy, enjoying success in all age categories in youth football, signing his first professional contract with us in February 2019.
"We thank Folarin for his contribution to Arsenal, through our Academy into the first team, and wish him the best of health and happiness in his new chapter at AS Monaco. The deal is subject to the completion of regulatory processes."
Balogun enjoyed a successful loan spell in Ligue 1 last term and has received plenty of interest throughout the summer. However, Henry seems to have played an important role in convincing the USMNT international to choose Monaco over other clubs.
Questioned by Get French Football News, on the Gunners legend's role in his transfer, Balogun responded: “When I played against Monaco with Stade de Reims last season, he sent me a message to congratulate me on my goal. I asked him a bit about Monaco because it’s a beautiful place.“
“I obviously knew that he’d played there and he told me a bit about the club. It was a brief chat, and then when I came into training today, after yesterday’s announcement, he congratulated me and he’s happy that I’m here.
"It’s a good feeling to have support from him,” he added. Balogun isn’t expected to start against RC Lens on Saturday, but Monaco boss Adi Hutter hinted that he may be included in the matchday squad for the fixture.
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