How Folarin Balogun’s Everton Transfer Fell Apart After Medical Exam
Everything was lined up for USMNT forward Folarin Balogun to return to the Premier League, but his move to Everton suddenly unraveled after medical tests. The unexpected collapse created a chain reaction affecting multiple clubs and transfer plans.
The Breakdown of the Deal
Following an eventful 2026 FIFA World Cup, the 25-year-old striker attracted attention from several clubs including Barcelona and Aston Villa. Eventually, a move to Everton seemed imminent as both teams agreed on terms and Balogun went in for his medical examination.
Reports from insiders like Fabrice Hawkins, Fabrizio Romano, and Ben Jacobs reveal that something during the medical raised concerns at Everton. Although medicals do not have official pass or fail outcomes, Everton found enough hesitation to reconsider completing the deal.
The clubs renegotiated terms, with Everton even requesting an extra hour past the deadline to finalize the paperwork. Balogun was reportedly present at the Everton training ground, ready to sign. Yet in a twist, he chose not to complete the signing, walking away from the contract according to David Ornstein.
What Went Wrong in the Medical?
The exact issue flagged in Balogun’s medical remains undisclosed. Neither Monaco nor Balogun’s representatives acknowledge any health problems, insisting he is fit to play. Fabrizio Romano noted, "Monaco and player's camp insist Folarin is ready to play and there are no issues." Everton’s concerns, however, were significant enough to disrupt the transfer.
Balogun’s Next Steps
With the transfer window closed and no other options secured, Balogun will return to AS Monaco for now. This situation forces a temporary reunion, despite both sides initially aiming for a parting.
Last season, Balogun netted 13 goals in 30 Ligue 1 appearances. This year, he will compete in Ligue 1, the UEFA Conference League, and Coupe de France matches with Monaco. There remains a chance either Balogun or teammate Lamine Camara could move to Turkey or Saudi Arabia before their later transfer deadlines.
Transfer Market Impact
When Balogun’s move first appeared in jeopardy, Everton scrambled to find another striker after selling Beto to Fiorentina. They nearly secured a loan for Manchester United’s Joshua Zirkzee, but cancelled that plan once the Balogun deal briefly revived.
Monaco faced financial strain, reportedly €50 million in deficit, forcing urgent player sales. They arranged a deal to sell midfielder Camara to Chelsea, who needed reinforcements after losing Enzo Fernandez. Yet Monaco pulled out of that agreement last minute to keep key players amid the Balogun negotiations.
This move angered Chelsea officials, who considered Monaco’s actions "very unprofessional." With Balogun eventually rejecting Everton’s offer, Monaco ended up without funds from either sale as the transfer window closed.
Additionally, Monaco couldn’t free an international roster spot expected from Balogun’s departure, blocking the signing of Mexican international Erik Lira. France’s earlier transfer deadline compounded the issue, leaving no time for alternate arrangements.
Summary of Key Points
- Player: Folarin Balogun, USMNT striker
- Original Transfer: AS Monaco to Everton
- Reason for Collapse: Medical concerns raised by Everton, exact issue undisclosed
- Aftermath: Balogun returns to Monaco; Everton seeks alternatives
- Financial Impact: Monaco fails to generate expected funds, Chelsea deal falls through
- Transfer Deadlines: English Premier League midnight deadline; Turkish Super Lig September 4; Saudi Arabia October 12
