Tottenham are now said to have been given the green light to sign former Arsenal star Folarin Balogun. Spurs are hoping to add a couple of forwards to their record-spending summer, having so far concentrated on bolstering their defence and midfield.
Roberto De Zerbi has already spent £237million on new recruits, with Sandro Tonali, Mateus Fernandes and Jan Paul van Hecke taking up much of that spend. But he is yet to add any forwards, and that is expected to change over the coming weeks.
Tottenham are said to be prioritising a move for a winger currently, but they could yet add another striker, as long as the right deal comes up, or if they can shift one of their current frontmen.
According to new reports, Monaco and USMNT World Cup star Balogun is said to have approved a move to Tottenham, despite having come up through the ranks at Arsenal. Balogun grew up in London but ended up playing for the US due to being born Stateside.
Footmercato journalist Santi Aouna posted on X: "Folarin Balogun has given his green light to join Tottenham. As revealed on @footmercato, the Monaco striker is the Spurs' priority. No official offer yet, but discussions are progressing between the various parties."
Balogun has scored 24 goals in 72 league games for Monaco, and he scored three goals in five games as USMNT reached the World Cup Round of 16. Of course, he was notably at the centre of a controversy that saw him sent off and then dodge a suspension after a supposed Donald Trump interference.
“Obviously he’s a striker who’s very versatile. He can hurt you on the dribble, hurt you in behind, he’s a clinical finisher.” - Weston McKennie on Folarin Balogun
The 25-year-old didn't have a say in that, though, in his defence, and he will be looking to build on his impressive World Cup form at club level this coming season. Spurs are reportedly hoping that will be in North London, and they will reportedly have to pay €60million to get the deal done, which works out as £51.2million.
The last five players to play for both Arsenal and Tottenham
Emmanuel Adebayor — Arsenal (2006–09), Tottenham (2011–15)
William Gallas — Arsenal (2006–10), Tottenham (2010–13)
David Bentley — Arsenal (2004), Tottenham (2008–11)
Sol Campbell — Tottenham (1992–2001), Arsenal (2001–06, 2010)
Rohan Ricketts — Arsenal (2001–02), Tottenham (2002–05)
What Spurs can expect from Balogun
Balogon has received high praise over recent times, having established himself as a goalscorer for club and country. USMNT teammate Weston McKennie has said: “Obviously he’s a striker who’s very versatile. He can hurt you on the dribble, hurt you in behind, he’s a clinical finisher.” Meanwhile, Christian Pulisic has described him as 'insane'.