Folarin Balogun's move to Everton, which appeared close to completion less than 24 hours earlier, is now in doubt after L'Équipe reported that the striker could remain at AS Monaco when the transfer window closes on Tuesday night.
Everton had reached a club-to-club agreement worth an initial €45 million (£38.5m), plus €5m in add-ons and a sell-on clause. Personal terms on a four-year contract, with an option for a further year, had also been agreed, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Balogun had been cleared to travel for a medical ahead of the proposed move to Everton. However, L’Équipe now reports that the deal is “nears collapse,” with Monaco potentially keeping the striker. Neither club has provided a reason for the change.
Everton have already lost their other options up front. Beto completed his move to Fiorentina on the same day, while a proposed reunion with Richarlison, which had been linked to Iliman Ndiaye’s departure, also fell through after the Brazilian said he wanted “different kinds of opportunities” elsewhere.
If Balogun does not arrive before the deadline, Thierno Barry will be David Moyes’ only recognised senior striker.
Why Conflicting Reports Are Emerging Over the Balogun Transfer Before the Deadline
Reports on the deal have differed on deadline day. Earlier reports cited Fabrizio Romano’s confirmation and treated the transfer as completed. L’Équipe later reported that the move was in doubt, with several English-language outlets subsequently carrying the same update.
However, those reports all trace back to L’Équipe, with no independent confirmation from Everton, Monaco or Balogun’s representatives.
Neither club has stated the deal's status. Aston Villa and Barcelona have been mentioned as clubs "monitoring" Balogun's situation in recent days, according to the same French reporting, though there is no indication that either has approached.
Until Everton or Monaco confirms a position directly, the story remains unresolved rather than settled in either direction.
What Happens Next as the Premier League Transfer Deadline Approaches
The Premier League’s summer transfer window closes at 23:00 BST. Everton now need clarity from Monaco over Balogun’s future. If Monaco pull the striker from the move, Everton will have little time to find another option before the deadline.
Balogun’s situation could also affect Monaco’s move for Mexican midfielder Erik Lira. The deal is reportedly dependent on Balogun leaving, with his departure expected to provide the funds needed to sign Lira.
Monaco have also ended their interest in Eintracht Frankfurt winger Jean-Mattéo Bahoya, with Leeds United now pursuing the player. Any further update on Balogun’s situation will depend on confirmation from Everton or Monaco.
