Balogun-Everton transfer collapses after failed medical and player withdrawal

Key points

• Balogun failed his medical examination at Everton’s Finch Farm training ground, according to French journalist Fabrice Hawkins.
• The Athletic’s David Ornstein reports that Balogun has decided against the move and left Everton without signing, despite Monaco and Everton reaching a financial agreement.
• The transfer fee was agreed at an initial €45 million (approx. £38.58 million) plus €5 million in potential add-ons, with Everton sources valuing the deal at around £40 million.
• Everton’s caution was influenced by the ongoing injury concerns of summer signing Christian Norgaard, who is not near a return, according to manager David Moyes.
• Balogun, 25, scored 13 goals and provided four assists for Monaco last season and scored three goals in four matches for the United States at the 2026 World Cup.

Background

Everton had been actively seeking a new striker to replace Beto, who was sold to Fiorentina, and to bolster the attack after the sale of Iliman Ndiaye to Manchester City. The club had also agreed to re-sign Jack Grealish on a season-long loan. Balogun, who joined Monaco from Arsenal in 2022-23, had been linked with several top clubs, including Tottenham, Aston Villa, Barcelona, and PSG, following his World Cup performances. The transfer was expected to be completed before the September 1 deadline day.

How outlets are covering it

Royal Blue Mersey initially reported that the transfer was in jeopardy due to a failed medical, suggesting Everton might be erring on the side of caution due to Norgaard’s injury. Bleacher Report, citing The Athletic, confirmed that the deal had collapsed entirely, with Balogun withdrawing from the move despite Monaco and Everton having agreed on a fee. Sports Illustrated had earlier reported that the deal was agreed and Balogun was set to become the seventh USMNT player in the Premier League, highlighting the rapid shift in the situation. Fabrizio Romano had also reported that both clubs believed the deal was set to complete, underscoring the uncertainty surrounding the medical results.

Why it matters

The collapse of the Balogun deal leaves Everton without a new striker ahead of the transfer deadline, potentially impacting their attacking options for the 2026-27 season. The incident highlights the risks associated with medical examinations in high-profile transfers and the potential for deals to fall through even after financial agreements are reached. It also raises questions about the reliability of medical assessments in high-pressure transfer windows.

What to watch

Everton may need to seek an alternative striker before the September 1 deadline, or they may have to rely on their existing squad, including Thierno Barry, as their primary striker. Balogun may remain at Monaco or explore other transfer options, though his withdrawal from the Everton deal suggests he may be open to other opportunities. The situation may also prompt further scrutiny of medical processes in high-profile transfers.