Balogun named in Arsenal travelling squad ahead of loan move, Arteta also takes Okonkwo to USA

Mikel Arteta has included Anglo-American-Nigerian striker Folarin Balogun and goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo in Arsenal's traveling squad to the United States of America, the Gunners have confirmed via their official website.

The Hale End Academy graduates have been part of the Gunners' pre-season activities, featuring in the friendly against Ipswich Town, before traveling with the first team to Germany for a training camp and game against Nurnberg.

Allnigeriasoccer.com has been told that Balogun is expected to leave Arsenal on loan after the tour but the club has not been decided as of now.

The 21-year-old spent the second half of last season at Middlesbrough, scoring three goals and assisting three others in twenty one appearances across all competitions.

The signing of Gabriel Jesus and return of Reiss Nelson from his loan spell at Feyenoord could see Balogun fall down the pecking order of attackers and limit his first team opportunities should he remain at the Emirates Stadium, so another loan move makes sense.

Okonkwo is also angling for a loan move away from Arsenal with a view to making his senior debut.

The Super Eagles hopeful has been called up for ten first team games including seven in the Premier League without getting minutes.

Arsenal are heading to Stateside for matches against Everton, Orlando City and Chelsea as part of their preparations for the Premier League opener versus Crystal Palace.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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