Monaco will talk with Balogun about a possible exit after his deadline‑day transfer to Everton fell apart, CEO Thiago Scuro said on Wednesday. Can the striker find a new home?
Now 25‑year‑old Balogun is likely to head back to Monaco, and Scuro hinted a deal could be struck before Thursday, while markets in Turkey, Saudi Arabia and the U.S. remain active.
We’re still waiting for Balo to return, sit down and decide what comes next, Scuro told a press conference on Monaco’s YouTube channel. Other markets are open and we’re discussing various players, including Balo. Let’s see what materialises by Thursday, as some clubs still have the funds to act.
Scuro confirmed both clubs had signed paperwork and filed a deal sheet with the Premier League after Everton pushed ahead following lengthy medical talks. He claimed Balogun pulled out, feeling mistreated and citing doubts about his health.
In my view, the medical concerns were overblown; Balogun said he felt uneasy and refused to sign, and Monaco didn’t want to force a move without certainty.
The talks began between the two medical teams and dragged on for two or three hours as doctors delved deep into the assessment.
Scuro added that Balogun turned down other options to join Everton, noting his summer exit fits Monaco’s usual strategy of cashing in after a third season.
As uncertainty grew on Tuesday, Everton offered striker Joshua Zirzkee to Manchester United, only to see the bid rejected because United lacked time to replace their forward.
Everton’s failure to land a striker after Beto’s switch to Fiorentina leaves Thierno Barry as the lone recognized No 9. Meanwhile winger Iliman Ndiaye departed for Manchester City and Jack Grealish returned on loan.
Balogun, who netted 19 times for Monaco after arriving from Arsenal in 2023 and shone for the U.S. at the World Cup, could be key to another European push if he remains. If Balogun stays, can Monaco turn his season into another European surge?