RB Leipzig chances of Folarin Balogun deal fading

But it looks like Leipzig’s chances of a deal may already be fading, with Philipp Hinze of Sky Sport Germany reporting that a Leipzig transfer for Balogun is currently unlikely.

Hinze had previously reported that if Arsenal insist on a transfer fee of €40m (£35.5m) plus add-ons, Leipzig will refrain from making a move for Balogun this summer.

That fee is currently considered too expensive for Leipzig, and they may instead turn to the signing of Lois Openda of Ligue 1 club Lens.

So if Leipzig now look unlikely to secure a deal, it seems fair to assume Arsenal’s price tag was a factor.

As previously reported by David Ornstein, Balogun wants to be a first-choice striker wherever he’s playing next season, which is unlikely at Arsenal.

The centre-forward also doesn’t want to go on loan again, making a permanent transfer the most likely option.

Reports from Italy in recent weeks revealed that Balogun is a popular option at Milan, with Arsenal open to offers.

Milan are expected to have a €50m budget on top of any money they generate through sales, and a significant proportion of that money is set to go towards a new striker.

The Serie A club want a player who can help them in both the short and the long term, and Balogun fits the bill, so they’ve been laying the foundations for a move.

Balogun recently scored his 20th goal of the Ligue 1 season, bringing him to 21 goals in all competitions.

The striker’s spell on loan to Stade de Reims has been impressive, and he’s also recently committed his international future to the United States.

Still just 21 years old, Balogun should have a bright future ahead of him, and his value on the market should reflect that.