Arsenal hit gold by selling "unbelievable" star who Arteta said was "something special" -opinion

So, that summer, when AS Monaco came in with a mega £34m offer, the North Londoners bit their hand off, and in the season and a bit since, it has looked like a great decision to do so.

For example, while he was still effective in France last season, a haul of eight goals and seven assists in 32 games is hardly earth-shattering.

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Likewise, his tally of three goals and one assist in ten appearances this season wouldn't be enough to see him start for the Gunners.

Ultimately, Balogun is a very talented footballer and someone who looks more than good enough to enjoy a great career in one of Europe's top five leagues, but it feels doubtful that he'll become the world-beater some thought he would.

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Therefore, it was brilliant business from Arteta and Arsenal to get £34m for him last season, especially as he probably wouldn't have played much of a role had he stayed.