Balogun eyes Turkey/Saudi after Everton deal collapses
Folarin Balogun's potential move to Everton has fallen through, prompting AS Monaco to explore transfer options in Turkey and Saudi Arabia.
The Cliff News | 3 September 2026
Striker Folarin Balogun may be forced to consider a transfer to clubs in Turkey or the Saudi Pro League this week, following the abrupt collapse of his proposed $45 million move to English Premier League side Everton. AS Monaco, his current club, confirmed they are still aiming to offload his contract.
The 25-year-old forward decided to pull the plug on the transfer in the early hours of Wednesday. This decision came after both Everton and Monaco were granted an extension beyond the 23:00 BST transfer deadline to renegotiate the terms of the deal. Issues reportedly arose during the player's medical examination at Everton's Finch Farm training ground.
Medical Concerns Halt Premier League Move
Monaco's sporting director, Thiago Scuro, stated at a news conference on Wednesday that Balogun abandoned the move due to concerns about his treatment by Everton following the medical. Sources close to the situation revealed to ESPN that Everton had been alerted to 'significant issues' during the medical examination.
With AS Monaco needing to raise funds by streamlining their squad, Scuro indicated that the club is now actively assessing alternative markets for Balogun's contract. The transfer windows in Turkey remain open until September 4, and in Saudi Arabia until October 12, providing potential avenues for a deal to be struck.
Monaco Seeks New Transfer Solutions
The failed transfer to Everton represents a significant setback for both the player and Monaco. The French club had been hoping to secure a substantial fee for Balogun, a move crucial for their financial planning. The Premier League club, meanwhile, will need to seek alternative attacking reinforcements before their transfer window closes.
The situation highlights the complexities and potential pitfalls of high-stakes football transfers. Even when agreements are seemingly in place, factors such as medical evaluations can lead to sudden and significant changes in a player's career trajectory. Balogun's future now hinges on Monaco's ability to find a suitable buyer in the remaining open markets.