Balogun transfer to Everton collapses over medical concerns
A €45 million deal for United States forward Folarin Balogun was reportedly halted by a medical issue on deadline day, leaving the player at AS Monaco and forcing Everton to seek alternative striker options.
The transfer of United States men's national team forward Folarin Balogun to Everton has reportedly fallen through due to a medical issue identified on deadline day. According to CBS Sports, a €45 million agreement had been reached between the Premier League club and AS Monaco, but the move was halted, leaving the 25-year-old to remain in France.
This development marks the second consecutive window in which a move for a USMNT forward has collapsed at the final stage. In the previous transfer window, a deal for Ricardo Pepi to join Fulham also failed to materialise. For Balogun, who began his career in the Arsenal academy, the setback means he will continue his tenure at Monaco, where he has not appeared since the World Cup.
At the international level, Balogun has established himself as the unquestioned starter under manager Mauricio Pochettino, having scored three goals for the United States during the tournament. However, his club situation remains complicated, as he has not played for Monaco this season. The specific nature of the medical issue has not been detailed, making it difficult to verify the exact status of his fitness.
For Everton, the failed acquisition presents a tactical challenge. The club recently sold striker Beto to Fiorentina, and while Balogun would have offered movement and shot creation, the form of current striker Thierno Barry made a guaranteed starting spot uncertain. Barry has been experiencing a breakout season, and his physical presence against Premier League defenders offered a different profile to the American.
With the Balogun deal off the table, Everton may now turn their attention to Joshua Zirkzee as an alternative option. Zirkzee has struggled to fit in at Manchester United, and a change of scenery could prove beneficial for both parties. The potential move is currently described as a possibility rather than a confirmed arrangement.
Balogun will continue to compete in the Europa Conference League with Monaco, providing him with a platform to demonstrate his fitness. Should his status remain unresolved, the player could still be subject to transfer interest in January or next summer, though the immediate uncertainty highlights the risks associated with finalising deals on the final day of the window.
