ALMOST DONE: Arsenal ‘close’ to completing $61m summer transfer as huge price tag emerges for USMNT star

New Balogun price tag

Arsenal have slapped a new price tag on USMNT striker Folarin Balogun. The 21-year-old is likely to leave the club this summer after his impressive loan move with Stade Reims.

Previously, it was understood the Gunners would demand £35 million ($44.5m) for Balogun. However, it has now been reported that any suitors will have to pay an extra £15m ($19m). It remains to be seen whether the likes of AC Milan, Inter Milan or Napoli will sanction a move for £50m ($63.6m).

“Talks have taken place between Arsenal and the representatives of striker Balogun over his future,” Sky Sports’ Dharmesh Sheth said. “One source has told Sky Sports News that the Gunners’ valuation is £50m for a player who still has two years left on his contract.”

Gunners247 says: Mikel Arteta’s decision not to implement Balogun into his squad next season means the Gunners simply have to sell the striker. He’s already confirmed that he won’t be heading out on loan once again, so we seem to be heading for only one outcome.

£50m for a striker with only 70 Premier League minutes under his belt is a big demand by Arsenal. Yet, it would not be surprising if a European club coughs up such a fee. His performances in France perfectly demonstrated his quality in the right side and the 21-year-old could easily repay the fee in one season.

Besides, in today’s market, £50m is not totally unreasonable.

Timber ‘close’

Arsenal are getting closer to agreeing personal terms with Ajax defender Jurrien Timber. The Dutch international has become Arteta’s priority defensive reinforcement this summer and is expected to move to England after failing to secure a transfer to Man United last summer.

The Daily Mail have claimed the 22-year-old will earn a minimum of £90,000-per-week at the Emirates Stadium, with his add-ons to push the weekly wage to £120,000-per-week.

It’s understood that the north Londoners will pay £48m ($61m) for the versatile defender.

Gunners247 says: It’s really exciting to see Arsenal getting their business done early doors. When you consider we are not even in July yet, the Gunners are taking enormous strides ahead of the start of pre-season next week.