Inter Milan have stepped up the talks to sign Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun this summer, reports The Athletic.
The Nerazzurri have initiated contact with Balogun’s representatives and are preparing an offer worth around €40 million. The Gunners value him around €50m.
Balogun emerged as the top target for the Nerazzurri after talks to re-sign Romelu Lukaku fell through.
Inter withdrew from their pursuit of the Belgian striker after learning that he prefers a move to arch-rivals Juventus.
Balogun has been put up for sale by the Gunners after returning from an excellent loan spell at Reims last season.
The 22-year-old, who recently switched his allegiance to the United States national team, saw his stock grow considerably after netting 22 goals in Ligue 1.
Having snapped up Marcus Thuram on a free transfer this summer, Inter are keen to add Balogun to their attacking options.
AC Milan have also been credited with an interest in the US youngster, but Inter are ramping up their efforts to sign him.
The Rossoneri’s pursuit of Porto striker Mehdi Taremi may allow Inter to move ahead in the race to sign Balogun.
The Nerazzurri have also accelerated their negotiations for Bayern Munich goalkeeper Yann Sommer as a replacement for Andre Onana, who is on the brink of joining Manchester United.
Shakhtar Donetsk keeper Anatoliy Trubin could also move to the San Siro, with Inter in talks over his transfer.
Ex-Juventus star Juan Cuadrado has reached an agreement to join Inter, with his medical tests planned on Tuesday.
