Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun ‘completes loan transfer to Reims’ but there will be NO agreement to buy in deal

ARSENAL starlet Folarin Balogon's loan deal to French side Reims has reportedly been "completed" ahead of an official announcement.

The 21-year-old has been allowed to depart the Emirates with Mikel Arteta keen for the youngster to play regular first-team football.

Balogun, who is tied down in North London until 2025, spent the second half of the 2021-22 season on loan at Middlesbrough.

And he impressed during his time with Boro, where he chipped in with three goals and as many assists in 18 Championship matches.

The England youth international will now continue his development in Ligue 1 after being targeted to replace Hugo Ekitike.

Reims have made bringing in a centre-forward a top priority after Ekitike rejected Newcastle for Paris Saint-Germain in a £30million deal.

It was claimed on Monday how the youngster was undergoing his medical ahead of his switch to join Reims.

And according to reporter , the loan has been agreed, with an announcement to confirm the transfer only now needed.

Reims do not have a buy-option included in the deal, with Arsenal still believing he has a huge future at the club.

Taylor tweeted: "Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun has completed loan switch to Ligue 1 side Stade Reims.

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"No option to buy included within agreement.

"21-year-old forward has been in France this week to undergo medical.

"Deal will be formally announced & official tonight."

Prior to Balogun's loan to Middlesbrough last term, he appeared in Arsenal's opening two Premier League games.

He started in the 2-0 defeat away at Brentford, before coming on as a late substitute in the 2-0 loss to Chelsea.