Journalist: Spurs receive green light to sign former Arsenal forward

Journalist: Spurs receive green light to sign former Arsenal forward Tottenham Transfer News: Folarin Balogun Gives Green Light as Spurs Talks Progress Tottenham’s summer business has already carried significant weight, but attention is now turning towards the forward line, with Folarin Balogun emerging as a serious option. Spurs have invested heavily under Roberto De Zerbi, strengthening defence and midfield first, and the focus now appears to be shifting towards goals, pace and versatility in attack. According to Santi Aouna, Balogun has given his approval to a move to Tottenham, with the Monaco striker described as a priority target. The update suggests there is no official offer on the table yet, though discussions are advancing between the parties involved. That detail matters, because it places the situation firmly in the active stage without implying that an agreement is close. Photo IMAGO For Spurs, that fits the profile of a market opportunity worth exploring. The club are understood to be prioritising a winger, but there remains scope for a striker to arrive if the conditions are right, particularly if movement occurs among the current attacking options. Balogun, at 25, sits in an interesting bracket. He has top-level experience, knows London, has pedigree from his early development years and has continued to build a reputation in France with Monaco. Balogun profile suits Tottenham plans Balogun’s numbers are solid rather than inflated, 24 league goals in 72 appearances for Monaco, and they point to a forward who can contribute consistently without yet having reached his ceiling. His World Cup return, three goals in five matches as the United States reached the round of 16, further underlined his ability to perform on a major stage. What will appeal to Tottenham is the blend in his game. He can run beyond a defence, stretch the pitch and attack space quickly, while also carrying the ball with purpose. Weston McKennie summed up those qualities neatly when he said, “Obviously he’s a striker who’s very versatile. He can hurt you on the dribble, hurt you in behind, he’s a clinical finisher.” That versatility is increasingly valuable in a Premier League side expected to rotate systems and attacking structures across a long season. De Zerbi’s attacking players are often asked to be mobile, technically secure and tactically adaptable. Balogun appears to check several of those boxes. Monaco striker fee and deal context The reported asking price stands at €60 million, which converts to roughly £51.2 million. For a player of Balogun’s age and profile, that is substantial, though not extraordinary in the current market, especially for a Premier League club that has already shown a willingness to spend aggressively this summer. There is, of course, an added layer because of his Arsenal past. Cross-North London moves always carry noise, and Balogun would join a short list of players to have represented both clubs. Yet from Tottenham’s perspective, sentiment rarely drives transfer strategy at this level. Availability, fit, cost and upside will shape the final decision far more than the badge he wore earlier in his career. All told, this feels like a situation to watch closely. Spurs are in the market for attacking reinforcement, Balogun is open to the move, and the conversations are progressing. Whether that develops into a formal bid will likely depend on Tottenham’s wider attacking plans and Monaco’s stance as talks continue. Our View From a Tottenham fan perspective, this is the sort of report that immediately sparks curiosity. Balogun is talented, quick and carries a profile that feels suited to the Premier League. If De Zerbi wants a forward who can press, run channels and threaten in transition, then you can absolutely see the logic. The Arsenal history will dominate the reaction externally, but supporters will care more about output than old narratives. If a player improves the squad, most fans will get on board quickly. The bigger question is whether £51.2 million is the right number for a striker who has shown promise and quality, but has not yet delivered elite scoring figures across multiple seasons. There is also the issue of squad balance. Spurs still need the right winger many supporters have been calling for, and that probably remains the more urgent need. If the club can address both positions, then the attack begins to look far more dangerous and varied. If signing Balogun means compromising elsewhere, then some fans may hesitate. On ability alone, this is intriguing. He feels like a player with room to grow, and there is something appealing about adding someone with pace, confidence and a point to prove in North London. It is not hard to imagine this one gathering momentum if the financials become workable. Source: Santi Aouna