Florian Balogun is a 21 year old born in New York. He has represented England at a youth level but has the ability to switch over to the USMT and to Nigeria. There is currently a recruitment battle between the countries to lock up his services. He is currently on loan from Arsenal to Reims in france. 

The striker has 17 goals in 27 games. He is tied for the third most in Ligue 1. Balogun looks like he is turning into a top striker in Europe. The main problem in the U.S current crop of players is the striker position is up in the air with Daryl Dike, Ricardo Pepi, Haji Wright, Josh Sargent, Jesus Ferreira, and Jordan Siebatcheu all contesting each other. There is no clear answer to the position but if Balogun Joined he would almost definitely be the top choice for the U.S.

The USMNT plays in Orlando tonight and Balogun was spotted in Orlando with confirmation of the two sides in discussion and possibilities for Balogun to commit to the USMNT. Balogun has now deleted all photos of himself wearing an England jersey from his instagram. There was no call up from England which only enhanced the rumors of Balogun’s potential to switch.

Arsenal teammate and England international Emile Smith Rowe said, “Of course [I would prefer he choose England], but obviously it’s his decision. That’s down to him to do what he wants to do. It would be nice if he could be with us in the summer but like I said, that’s down to him and he’s got to do what’s best for him.”

Balogun could be a key for the future of soccer in the U.S and to get his commitment would be key for the USMNT.