Why Folarin Balogun’s Everton Transfer Fell Apart After Medical Tests
Everything looked set for USMNT forward Folarin Balogun to make a strong return to the Premier League this summer. The 25-year-old had attracted interest from clubs like Barcelona and Aston Villa, but it was Everton who appeared closest to securing his signature. As the transfer window deadline approached, both clubs reportedly agreed on terms, and Balogun traveled to Merseyside for his medical examination.
But the deal nearly unraveled when Everton raised concerns following the medical. This sudden hesitation sparked complications, impacting not just the two clubs involved but also causing a chain reaction across the transfer market.
What Went Wrong with Balogun’s Medical?
Sources such as Fabrice Hawkins, Fabrizio Romano, and Ben Jacobs indicate that Everton’s doubts emerged after the physical checkup. While medical exams don't have an official pass or fail grade, something in Balogun's results alarmed Everton enough to halt the transfer.
The two clubs renegotiated the fee, and Everton even requested a one-hour extension from the Premier League to finalize the deal. It seemed Balogun would sign his contract at Everton’s training ground. Yet, in a surprising turn, Balogun chose not to complete the signing and left without finalizing the move, according to David Ornstein.
Details Behind the Medical Concerns Remain Unclear
The exact issue flagged during the medical is not public and may never be fully disclosed unless a party decides to share it. Monaco and Balogun’s representatives insist the player is fit and ready to compete. Romano reported that both Monaco and Balogun’s camp reject Everton’s assessment, affirming no health problems.
What’s Next for Balogun?
With the transfer window closed and no alternative offers secured, Balogun must return to AS Monaco. This reunion could be awkward since both sides had planned to part ways. Last season, Balogun netted 13 goals in 30 Ligue 1 appearances and will now compete again in the UEFA Conference League alongside domestic league and cup commitments.
Monaco might still look to sell Balogun or midfielder Lamine Camara to clubs in Turkey or Saudi Arabia, where transfer windows remain open until early October. Deadline for Turkey’s Super Lig closes September 4, while Saudi Arabia’s registration period extends until October 12.
The Wider Impact of the Failed Transfer
Everton, having sold striker Beto to Fiorentina earlier that day, urgently needed a replacement. They moved quickly to arrange a loan for Manchester United’s Joshua Zirkzee. When the Balogun deal seemed back on track, Everton canceled Zirkzee’s loan almost immediately.
Monaco faced serious financial strain after missing out on Champions League qualification and counting on Balogun’s sale to ease a reported €50 million shortfall. The club’s sporting director, Thiago Scouro, reportedly faces pressure following the chaotic deadline day.
Monaco also reached a last-minute agreement to sell Camara to Chelsea, who were rebuilding their midfield after Enzo Fernandez’s departure. However, once the Balogun transfer appeared viable again, Monaco abruptly called off the Camara deal, angering Chelsea executives who labeled Monaco’s conduct "very unprofessional." This left Monaco stuck without sales after Balogun’s final refusal, deepening their financial woes.
Balogun’s delayed exit also blocked Monaco from registering Mexico international Erik Lira. Since France’s transfer deadline ended earlier than England’s, Monaco couldn’t finalize Lira’s arrival without Balogun freeing up a roster spot.
