Everton’s long‑awaited acquisition of 25‑year‑old U.S. striker Folarin Balogun collapsed on the final day of the Premier League transfer window. The club announced that the deal with Monaco fell through after Balogun failed the mandatory medical examination, according to reporting by The Athletic.
Medical issue halts £40 million move
Sources say Balogun was on Everton’s training ground and expected to sign a contract worth roughly £40 million (about $54 million). The club has not released an official statement, and the British Press Association had previously reported the fee range. The medical setback, however, appears to be the decisive factor that stopped the transfer.
Balogun’s recent U.S. national‑team impact
Balogun entered the spotlight this summer after scoring three goals for the United States at the World Cup, helping the team reach the knockout stage. He finished as the U.S. team’s top scorer in the tournament. In the round‑of‑32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina, Balogun received a red card and a one‑game suspension, but the ban was deferred after President Donald Trump intervened, allowing him to play in the round of 16. He later featured in the 4‑1 loss to Belgium that ended the United States’ World Cup run.
Career path leading to the attempted move
Born in New York and raised in Britain, Balogun progressed through Arsenal’s academy before moving to Middlesbrough. He later joined French side Reims and then transferred to Monaco, where he signed a contract with two years remaining. In the 2025‑26 Ligue 1 season, he netted 13 goals in 30 appearances, drawing interest from several top European clubs.
What this means for Everton
Everton will now need to look elsewhere to bolster their attacking options ahead of the new season. The club’s management has not indicated whether they will pursue an alternative striker or revisit the market later in the summer. Fans will be watching closely for any new developments as the club seeks to improve its goal‑scoring record.
Broader transfer‑window context
Balogun’s failed transfer adds to a busy deadline‑day landscape across Europe’s top leagues, where several high‑profile moves were either completed or fell apart at the last minute. While Everton’s pursuit of Balogun will not materialize this window, the market remains active, and clubs continue to negotiate deals as the new season approaches.
Original reporting: KSAT Sports (San Antonio) — read the source article.
