"We've spoken..." - Manager confirms he's met with Arsenal striker Balogun over huge career decision

United States interim coach Anthony Hudson has confirmed he's held talks with Folarin Balogun over the striker switching his international allegiance from England.

Arsenal striker Balogun, 21, has attracted attention this season after impressing while on loan at French club Reims.

The striker has scored 18 goals in all competitions and is in contention to be top scorer in Ligue 1, with the youngster currently tied for third in standings – just two goals behind Lille forward Jonathan David and PSG superstar Kylian Mbappe.

Balogun has represented both England and the United States at youth level, while he is also eligible to play for Nigeria through his parents.

There were suggestions that England U21 international Balogun might earn a call-up to Gareth Southgate's senior squad for the Euro 2024 qualifiers against Italy and Ukraine.

But after he failed to make the cut, Balogun posted a cryptic message on Instagram, which read 'In life, go where you're appreciated' – prompting speculation he was considering changing his international allegiance.

The New York-born striker was later spotted in Florida, where the United States had been preparing for their upcoming matches against Grenada on Friday and El Salvador on Monday.

Hudson confirms Balogun talks

United States interim coach Hudson has now confirmed he met with Balogun but says the striker is yet to make a final decision over whether to declare himself available for selection.

"As I've said before, we've had dialogue. We've spoken. He's out here having a bit of a break and then some training, and we've had some discussions," Hudson said.

"I think it's been good because it's been an opportunity for us just to share about our program and who we are and what we do and that's it.

"I hope we get the chance to speak to him again. It's been good and I know a few of the guys have spoken to him as well."

While he said he hadn't spoken with Balogun personally, United States and Chelsea star Christian Pulisic added: "Obviously, from our side, we'd love to have him."