Why Folarin Balogun might have just ruined Arsenal’s clever January transfer plan

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Ahead of the January transfer window, Arsenal are thought to have recognised their need to add firepower to Mikel Arteta’s squad.

Even without Edu Gaspar around, Arsenal are ready to operate as normal next month given that the former sporting director’s responsibilities have already been devolved.

In fact, Arsenal are considering an internal appointment to fill Edu’s shoes, pedalling the idea that the club are in safe hands.

In terms of who the club may target, Arsenal are interested in Randal Kolo Muani, a striker who is on the periphery of things at Paris Saint-Germain.

And whilst a loan deal looked realistic and favourable for all parties, there could now be an issue for Arsenal.

Folarin Balogun’s injury means Randal Kolo Muani may be off-limits for Arsenal

Kolo Muani is available next month, but now AS Monaco could spoil Arsenal’s pursuit judging by reports in France.

Folarin Balogun, who Monaco signed from Arsenal, wasn’t fit to play against the Gunners at the Emirates Stadium in the Champions League.

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Balogun recently suffered a repeat of a shoulder injury, and L’Equipe are now reporting that he will undergo surgery which could keep him out for four months.

As a result, Monaco are being linked with a move for Kolo Muani in January, who Monaco boss Adi Hutter knows well from their time in Germany.

Hutter has already responded to those links with some encouragement, explaining why Balogun’s injury could indirectly scupper Arsenal’s own pursuit of Kolo Muani.

PSG may prefer to keep the striker in France, and there’s no doubt that Monaco would be able to offer more guarantees over playing time.

Speaking on the links, Hutter said: “I’ve known Kolo Muani since he played in Frankfurt. He’s scored a lot of goals and he might be a profile. There are so many other things, and he’s not the cheapest.”

Who could Arsenal target instead of Kolo Muani?

In truth, there’s probably not another short-term fix as accomplished as Kolo Muani available next month.

It’s rare that a World Cup winning striker is free to leave on loan during their prime years, and Arsenal might be disappointed to miss out.

If that is the case, Arsenal may continue their Rafael Leao plan instead.

The AC Milan forward won’t be switching clubs in January but Arsenal have already put in some ground work ahead of a potential deal next summer.

January presents a real opportunity for Arsenal, not only for Arteta to strengthen his squad, but also for their new transfer team to prove their credentials and execution.