Inter Milan open talks to sign Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun

Inter Milan have stepped up the talks to sign Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun this summer, reports The Athletic.

The Nerazzurri have initiated contacts with Balogun’s representatives and are said to be preparing an offer worth around €40 million, whereas the Gunners value him around €50 million.

Balogun emerged as the top target for the Nerazzurri after the talks to re-sign Romelu Lukaku fell through.

Inter decided to withdraw from their pursuit of the Belgian striker after learning that he prefers a move to arch-rivals Juventus.

Balogun has been put up for sale by the Gunners after returning from an excellent loan spell at Reims last season.

The 22-year-old, who recently switched his allegiance to the United States national team, saw his stock grow considerably after netting 22 goals in Ligue 1.

Having snapped up Marcus Thuram on a free transfer this summer, Inter look to follow up with the Balogun to bolster their attacking options.

Arch rivals AC Milan have also been credited with an interest in the USMNT youngster, however, Inter are ramping up their efforts to sign him.

At the same time, Rossoneri’s pursuit of Porto striker Mehdi Taremi might allow Inter to move ahead to swoop for Balogun.

The Nerazzurri have also accelerated their negotiations for Bayern Munich goalkeeper Yann Sommer as a replacement for Andre Onana, who is on the brink of joining Manchester United.

Shakhtar Donetsk keeper Anatoliy Trubin could also move to San Siro, with Inter said to be in talks over his transfer.

Colombian free agent Juan Cuadrado, who recently left Juventus, has reached an agreement to join Inter, with his medical tests planned on Tuesday.