Arsenal beat Millwall 4-1 in secret friendly as Folarin Balogun gets among the goals

Arsenal sign Albert Sambi Lokonga from Anderlecht

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info

Arsenal have finally won their first pre-season match thanks to a thumping victory over Millwall on Saturday afternoon. The Gunners had previously lost to Hibernian and drew with Rangers on their brief tour of Scotland, sparking concern ahead of the new season.

Goals from Callum Chambers, Nicolas Pepe, Folarin Balogun and Alexandre Lacazette fired Arsenal to victory over the Lions at London Colney.

Lacazette would have been looking to make a statement after reportedly being transfer listed, as the Gunners prepare to swoop for Chelsea’s Tammy Abraham.

The 30-year-old promptly responded with a goal which, even if his Arsenal future is soon to be over, will do no harm in attracting potential suitors.

In getting among the action, Balogun has also stated his own case to be involved in boss Mikel Arteta’s first-team plans for the coming season.

JUST IN: PSG fans want Man Utd’s Paul Pogba to snub move as angry banner put up at Parc des Princes

With Eddie Nketiah already in the fold, however, one would presume that Balogun’s fellow youngster would have to be removed from the equation in order for that to happen.

Nketiah’s departure is rumoured to be a possibility, with a number of Premier League clubs making enquiries earlier in the summer.

Balogun is highly-regarded by Gunners fans, while he will be keen to build on the two senior goals he has managed for the club so far, both in the Europa League last term.

The latest pre-season victory will take the sting out of preparations for Arteta, who will undoubtedly be keen to build on their disappointing eighth-place finish last season.

DON’T MISS
Four transfers Arsenal could now complete with White to sign next week
Mikel Arteta sends Emile Smith Rowe warning after new Arsenal contract
Roma ‘one step away’ from handing Granit Xhaka £17m Arsenal exit

As a result, Arsenal will have a complete absence of European football for the first time in 25 years.

With a number of senior players having left for pastures new so far this summer, the Spaniard is working with a limited squad, although Albert Sambi Lokonga and Nuno Tavares are two new faces who are expected to be followed by more in the coming weeks.

The transfer of Ben White from Brighton looks set to be formally announced in the near future, in a deal worth £50million.

Transfer chief Edu is also reportedly keen to recruit a goalkeeper who can challenge Bernd Leno for the No 1 spot, with Aaron Ramsdale shaping up to be the most likely candidate.

Do you want an exclusive pre-season preview for YOUR club – both in your inbox and through your letterbox? Head over here to find out more and secure your copy.

Hector Bellerin’s impending departure could also prompt Arteta to venture back out into the market, while at least one more midfield body is a must at the Emirates.

The Gunners get their Premier League season underway against Brentford on August 13, and the Spaniard will certainly be keen to get a good look at the players he will have at his disposal before then.

Source: Read Full Article