And while retaining the option to recall Balogun, it’s said Arsenal would have ‘incurred certain financial penalties’. The report added that Arsenal also didn’t feel it would help Balogun by taking him away from Reims where he has broken out into a bright talent.
The Gunners adopted a similar stance during William Saliba’s long loan spell away from the club. Arteta faced regular questions about Saliba’s future at the club and there was some speculation that the centre-back was looking to seal a move away from Arsenal.
But it all paid off eventually with Saliba returning from his long loan spell in Ligue 1 at the start of this season, playing a key role in helping Arteta’s side sit top of the table. Arsenal will likely be hoping for a similar impact from Balogun with a full season out on loan at Reims.