Arsenal consider offering Balogun to AC Milan in part-exchange to get playmaker Bennacer

ENGLISH Premier league side Arsenal are preparing to offer their on-loan Nigeria-eligible striker Folarin Balogun to AC Milan as part of a package to attract Algerian midfielder Ismael Bennacer during the forthcoming summer transfer window.

Lauded for his recent performances in Serie A this season, Bennacer, 25, is described as the complete midfielder. A mercurial playmaker, he has registered more shot-creating actions per game, won more tackles and interceptions as well as won more challenges than any other player in Serie A this season.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, is said to be a big fan of Bennacer and is willing to offer Balogun to Milan as part of a deal. Balogun, 21, is currently on a season-long loan to French side Reims, where he is enjoying a hugely impressive campaign, scoring 17 goals in 28 games in all competitions so far.

According Gazzetta dello Sport, AC Milan have recently shown an interest in Balogun and there has been another update from the same source that Inter Milan are eyeing him too. A product of the Arsenal youth academy, Balogun has a contract at the Emirates until 2025, so the club will be demanding top dollar for him.

Arsenal are hoping to make signings which will allow them to remain among Europe's heavyweights as they prepare for the Champions League next season. This season for instance, Jorginho has been a very good signing in midfield but he is not the long-term answer in the middle of the park.

Offering Balogun in a swap will disappoint many Arsenal fans, regardless of who arrives in the opposite direction but there is no doubt that the youngster could face a tough task trying to break into Mikel Arteta’s plans next season. Bennacer, however, is seen as world class and this is seen as too good an offer to pass up on.