Arsenal's Balogun reveals Lacazette, Pepe advised him to leave the club

• Folarin Balogun has revealed the role played by Alexander Lacazette and Nicolas Pepe in his decision to join Reims
• The youngster sealed a season-long loan move to the French club in the summer
• Balogun has now divulged that his decision to move to the Ligue 1 was influenced by Lacazette and Pepe
• Both Laca and Pepe are also currently playing in the French top flight, with the latter turning out for Nice on loan

Arsenal youngster Folarin Balogun has disclosed that former Gunners stars Alexander Lacazette and Nicolas Pepe advised him to leave the Emirates Stadium.

Balogun spent the second half of last season on loan to Championship side Middlesborough, where he made a name for himself as a rising star.

And while he did not score as much in the second-tier English league, Metro UK reports that he courted plenty of interest from clubs who wanted to sign him.

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It was initially expected that Mikel Arteta would integrate him into the first team as he continues his development at the north London club.

However, he was shipped out in the summer, with French side Reims snapping him on a season-long loan deal.

Balogun explains Lacazette, Pepe role

The 21-year-old has now divulged that both Lacazette and Pepe played a role in his decision to seal a move to the Ligue 1.

According to Balogun, the duo, who have played in France themselves told him he would flourish in the country.

"I spoke to Laca and Nico before making the move," Balogun told The Athletic.

"Laca told me he thinks it’s a good league for me and that I needed to start playing. Then Laca left and I spoke to Nico when we were in America on the pre-season tour," he added.

Balogun is currently enjoying a fine run of form with Reims, having already scored eight goals and assisted two others in 15 appearances.