Report: AC Milan could look to Arsenal teenager to replace Zlatan Ibrahimovic

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Italian website CalcioMercato have claimed that Arsenal teenager Folarin Balogun has emerged as a potential signing for AC Milan come the end of the season – with Milan looking to replace veteran Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

Balogun, 19, has broken into Arsenal’s senior side this season – scoring two goals in five first-team appearances. He has also scored eight goals in 16 appearances for the club’s second string, seven of which have come in Premier League 2.

But despite this excellent form, the New York-born attacker is in the last six months of his contract and has been linked with English and Bundesliga sides. But a new proposal could arrive for Balogun, from AC Milan.

The second-placed Serie A side are keen on replacing Ibrahimovic who is also out of contract this summer and Balogun – among others, including Donyell Malen – has been identified. He would of course be allowed to join on a free transfer.

TBR’s view – Losing Balogun on a free is a blow

At least if they are to lose him, they need to bring in a fee for the striker. Balogun is showing enormous potential, scoring goals on a regular basis at a decent level – and netting in the Europa League. He has a huge future.

But is he going to get that at Arsenal? Clearly, probably not. If he was to continue at Arsenal, the North London club would have already got him to pen a new deal at The Emirates. But it appears that Balogun is off, and Milan would be a stunning move.