Edu could be about to do something Arsenal fans have wanted for months – TBR View

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Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun is one of the brightest talents to come through the Hale End ranks in recent years.

The 20-year-old has been in sensational form for the Arsenal Under-23s this season.

Balogun has registered a staggering 16 goals and two assists in just 15 appearances this season.

And that’s a tally that includes the senior games.

Balogun’s tally in youth competition reads 12 games, 16 goals, two assists.

This clearly shows he’s outgrown the development setup.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta gave Balogun game time earlier in the season.

The young marksman started against Brentford and came off the bench against Chelsea.

He also got seven minutes off the bench against Wimbledon in the Carabao Cup.

However, Balogun hasn’t featured in the Arsenal senior team since.

For months, Gunners fans have been calling for the Hale End star to go out on loan.

Even Charles Watts claimed earlier this month that keeping Balogun around was an “awful” decision.

Arsenal academy star Balogun “closest” to senior breakthrough

Now, Arsenal academy manager Per Mertesacker has now admitted that Balogun is likely to go out on loan in January.

The 37-year-old spoke about Balogun at the Arsenal Supporters’ Trust Christmas Event.

“I think the closest, at the moment, to make that step is Flo Balogun,” he said – as quoted by football.london – when asked which youngsters Arsenal fans should be keeping an eye on.

“He’s transferred in to the first team dressing room.

“He still plays 23s football and probably most likely will go on loan in January.

“Because you need extra exposure to get to that next level so he needs to make that transition.”

Mertesacker all-but confirming Balogun is set for a loan is something Arsenal fans have wanted for months.

And now, it looks as though Edu and the rest of the Gunners hierarchy will grant them – and Balogun – their wish.