Chelsea reluctant to meet Arsenal's asking price for Folarin Balogun

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Chelsea reluctant to meet Arsenal's asking price for Folarin Balogun

Chelsea remain interested in Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun after initial talks with the Gunners, 90min understands, but are not currently prepared to meet their asking price of £50m.

With Chelsea looking for a new striker to ease the load on Nicolas Jackson, an enquiry was made over Balogun, who netted 21 goals in an electric loan spell with Ligue 1's Stade Reims last season.

After contact with Balogun's representatives and with Arsenal, Chelsea remain interested in a deal for the United States striker although 90min understands the Blues are not prepared to agree to the £50m asking price.

Ligue 1's Monaco recently failed with a £30m offer for Balogun, while Inter's early interest in the 22-year-old quickly disappeared when the £50m price tag held firm.

Chelsea are hoping to sign a new striker before the end of the transfer window and also want a new versatile attacker who could help fill the void left behind by Christopher Nkunku, who played as a 10 and a winger in pre-season before being sidelined with a knee injury.

A move for Crystal Palace starlet Michael Olise was close to completion before the Frenchman ultimately signed a new contract, leaving Chelsea forced to consider alternative options.

Interest remains in Ajax's Mohammed Kudus, for whom West Ham United have failed with two bids. The Dutch side are understood to be holding out for €50m and have publicly warned suitors they will increase their asking price as the transfer deadline approaches.

Chelsea are also known admirers of 20-year-old Lyon duo Rayan Cherki and Bradley Barcola, who stood out when scouts went to check on the progress of right-back Malo Gusto during the second half of last season.