Arsenal could miss out on potential £50million transfer windfall needed for Mohammed Kudus move

Arsenal could miss out on signing Ajax attacking-midfielder Mohammed Kudus following reports that Folarin Balogun could not be sold this summer.

The Gunners have already spent over £200 million on Kai Havertz, Jurrien Timber and Declan Rice, but Mikel Arteta isn't finished there.

The Spaniard is also thought to be in the market for an attacking player to provide competition for Bukayo Saka, and Kudus fits the bill perfectly.

The 22-year-old can play in a conventional central midfield role, in a move advanced position or even on the right wing, making him an attractive option.

According to the Daily Mail, Kudus is valued at £40 million, with Arsenal ready to use the funds obtained from the sale of Balogun.

Inter Milan had emerged as frontrunners to sign Balogun after the Gunners stuck a £50 million price tag on the 22-year-old. However, that move has now been cast into doubt.

Inter set to end pursuit of Balogun

According to the Evening Standard, Inter could switch their transfer focus to West Ham striker Gianluca Scamacca if Arsenal fail to lower Folarin Balogun’s £50million asking price.

Scamacca is said to be open to a return to Serie A but West Ham have not ruled out keeping the striker, despite his underwhelming second campaign in the Premier League.

Balogun remains Inter's first choice, but Arsenal may need to lower their asking price if the Italian side are continue their pursuit of the United States international.

Meanwhile, Balogun himself has confirmed he is keen to play regular first team football which looks an unlikely feat at the Emirates.

However, he insisted he was focused on Arsenal's pre-season tour of the US in a recent interview, adding that his family and agent were dealing with his future.

"To be honest I was away for the year so I'm just back," Balogun said (via 90min).

"Obviously I'm just focused on pre-season with the team. It's nice to see everyone, all the staff

"But I'm just focused here [on pre-season] and my agent and family are dealing with [my future]."

Topics: Arsenal, Transfers, Premier League, Football, Ajax, Inter Milan

Joe Adams

Joe is a Journalist for SPORTbible with a primary focus on football. He has previously covered a number of other sports including boxing, rugby and F1. Wishes he was born left-footed.

@joeadamsjourno