8 – Flo Balogun
This one could go either way but reports suggest Arsenal would be willing to let Balogun leave on a season-long loan this season following the arrival of Gabriel Jesus.
The 21-year-old spent a valuable half season with the Championship’s Middlesbrough earlier this year which led to three goals and as many assists in 18 appearances.
And if Balogun is going to improve the only way to do so is regular game time in senior football having already proven he’s simply too good to be playing with the U23’s.
However, with a jam packed schedule due to the World Cup and the return of Europa League fixtures, this could well be a crucial few months for the young striker.
Arteta knows he has Jesus and Nketiah to swap in and out of the side, but one injury to either of them leaves him scratching his head for a centre forward replacement if Balogun isn’t available to call on.
Of course, Martinelli can slot in to the position but I would imagine any transfer of Balogun would involve Arsenal having to sign another forward player before the window shuts.
Personally, I think we could see Balogun head out on another loan to a Championship side which will then make the summer of 2023 a make or break season regarding his Arsenal future.
Balogun’s contract runs until 2025 after he recently signed a new extension, so there’s absolutely no rush from any party to be rushing into any rash decisions.