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Football

16th Sep 2020

Chris Wilder confirms Sheffield United interest in Arsenal striker

Wayne Farry

The youngster is yet to make a first team appearance for Arsenal

Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder has confirmed that the Blades have made an enquiry about the availability of young Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun.

Balogun, a member of Arsenal’s under-23 squad, has a contract at the Emirates Stadium which runs until next summer. According to reports, United made a bid of £3 million for the centre-forward which was rejected by the Gunners.

According to Sky Sports, Arsenal value the player at closer to £10 million, despite the fact that he is yet to make a senior appearance for Mikel Arteta’s side.

Chris Wilder is also said to retain an interest in Liverpool forward Rhian Brewster in his search for striking reinforcements, following the permanent departure of Callum Robinson to newly promoted West Bromwich Albion.

There have been unverified reports that the Blades have agreed a fee for Brewster with Liverpool, though confusion remains around whether Jurgen Klopp’s side would rather keep the 22-year-old, send him out on loan or on a permanent deal containing a buyback clause.

Despite an impressive season in which they finished ninth upon their return to the Premier League in 2019/20, United managed to score marginally over a goal per game, with 39 goals in their 38 league games.

Their top scorer, Oli McBurnie, scored six league goals in more than 30 appearances.