Inframe News – Folarin Balogun’s proposed move from Monaco to Everton collapsed dramatically on the final day of the summer transfer window. The United States international had traveled to Liverpool for a medical after the clubs reached an agreement on the transfer. However, the deal fell apart before the paperwork could be completed.
The transfer was reportedly worth around £40 million, with additional payments potentially taking the overall package higher. Everton had identified Balogun as a key target to strengthen their attack before the September 1 deadline. The club was looking for a new striker after losing other attacking options during the window.
Balogun completed a medical in Liverpool as Everton attempted to finalize the deal. According to reports, the club identified an issue during the examination and subsequently returned to Monaco to renegotiate the transfer terms. That development put the agreement under significant pressure with the deadline approaching.
Everton eventually requested additional time to complete the transfer. A deal sheet was reportedly prepared shortly before the 11 p.m. deadline, keeping the move alive temporarily. Despite that effort, Balogun ultimately decided not to proceed with the transfer.
Monaco chief executive Thiago Scuro later said Balogun was unhappy with how the medical situation had been handled. Scuro disputed suggestions that Monaco had failed to provide the necessary medical information on time. He said the player had received reassurance from both Monaco and his personal medical staff.
Everton had already lost significant attacking depth during the transfer window. Beto moved to Fiorentina, while Iliman Ndiaye completed a transfer to Manchester City. The failure to sign Balogun therefore left Everton with a major gap in their forward options.
The collapse also affected another transfer involving Monaco. Chelsea had been trying to sign midfielder Lamine Camara from the French club for a reported £47 million. Monaco ultimately cancelled that deal after the Balogun situation changed on deadline day.
Balogun has spent the past three seasons with Monaco after leaving Arsenal permanently. The striker has scored 31 goals in 91 appearances for the French club across all competitions. His performances have also established him as an important member of the United States national team.
The 25-year-old was born in New York to Nigerian parents and was raised in England. He chose to represent the United States internationally and has scored 12 goals in 31 appearances for the USMNT since making his debut in 2023.
Balogun also featured prominently during the 2026 World Cup. He scored twice in the United States’ opening victory over Paraguay and later scored against Bosnia and Herzegovina in the round of 32. His tournament ended after the United States were eliminated by Belgium in a 4-1 defeat.
The failed Everton transfer leaves Balogun at Monaco after a hectic deadline day. Everton, meanwhile, must continue with their existing attacking options until the next transfer window. The late collapse became one of the most dramatic stories of the final hours of the European transfer market.
