Why Folarin Balogun's Everton Transfer Fell Apart After Medical Exams
Everything seemed set for USMNT star Folarin Balogun to make a high-profile return to the Premier League. The 25-year-old, coming off a standout 2026 World Cup, was linked with Barcelona and Aston Villa before Everton emerged as the frontrunner. As Deadline Day unfolded, both clubs reportedly reached an agreement, and Balogun headed to Everton for his medical.
But just before completion, the deal nearly unraveled due to complications from the medical exam. This sudden setback not only affected the transfer but sent shockwaves through the market.
What Went Wrong in the Medical?
Multiple insiders, including Fabrice Hawkins, Fabrizio Romano, and Ben Jacobs, reported that Everton’s transfer almost collapsed after the medical raised concerns. Though medicals don’t technically have pass or fail results, something flagged in Balogun’s exam caused Everton to hesitate and pull back at the last minute.
The two clubs renegotiated terms, with Everton seeking a more favorable fee. They even requested a one-hour extension from the Premier League to finalize paperwork, and it seemed Balogun would sign at the Everton training ground.
Yet in a dramatic twist, Balogun himself refused to sign, leaving without completing the deal, according to David Ornstein.
What Raised Concerns in the Medical?
The exact cause of Everton’s hesitation remains unknown. Neither Monaco nor Balogun’s camp saw any issues, insisting he is fit to play. Fabrizio Romano noted that both parties maintain Balogun is ready and healthy, suggesting disagreement over Everton’s assessment.
Where Does Balogun Go Now?
With the transfer window closed, Balogun must return to AS Monaco for the foreseeable future, facing an awkward reunion after both sides hoped to part ways. Last season, Balogun scored 13 goals in 30 Ligue 1 matches. This season, he will compete in Ligue 1, the Coupe de France, and the UEFA Conference League with Monaco.
There’s still a chance Monaco might sell either Balogun or Lamine Camara to clubs in Turkey or Saudi Arabia before their respective windows close on September 4 and October 12.
The Domino Effect of the Failed Transfer
When the Balogun deal hit trouble, Everton scrambled for alternatives. After selling Beto to Fiorentina earlier, they targeted Joshua Zirkzee from Manchester United, nearly securing a loan deal. But once the Balogun transfer seemed salvageable, the Zirkzee move was dropped.
Monaco faced serious consequences from the failed deal. Their sporting director, Thiago Scouro, reportedly came under pressure as the club, already facing a €50 million deficit, missed out on Champions League revenue and needed funds urgently.
Monaco had lined up a sale of midfielder Lamine Camara to Chelsea, who wanted reinforcements after losing Enzo Fernandez. But when the Balogun deal looked likely again, Monaco canceled Camara’s transfer at the last moment. Chelsea officials were said to be furious, calling Monaco’s behavior unprofessional.
Balogun walking away left Monaco without funds from either key player’s sale. They also failed to open an international roster spot expected from Balogun’s departure, blocking the registration of Mexico international Erik Lira, as France’s transfer deadline came earlier than England’s.
