Why Folarin Balogun's Transfer to Everton Fell Apart After Medical Exam

Folarin Balogun's Move to Everton Collapses at Final Stage

The much-anticipated return of USMNT star Folarin Balogun to the Premier League hit a sudden snag. After being linked to clubs like Barcelona and Aston Villa, his transfer from AS Monaco to Everton was nearly complete as Deadline Day progressed. The two clubs reportedly agreed on terms, and Balogun was set for a medical examination with Everton. Yet, just when things seemed certain, the deal fell apart, sparking significant consequences across the transfer market.

What Caused the Deal to Break Down?

Multiple sources including Fabrice Hawkins, Fabrizio Romano, and Ben Jacobs revealed the transfer nearly collapsed because of concerns raised during Balogun’s medical exam. Although medicals don’t officially have pass or fail results, Everton found something in the tests that made them hesitant to finalize the signing. This hesitation prompted the clubs to renegotiate a new fee, and Everton even requested an extension from the Premier League to get the deal done.

Despite these efforts, Balogun himself refused to sign the contract and left the Everton training ground without completing the transfer, according to David Ornstein.

What Was the Issue in the Medical?

The exact problem flagged during the medical hasn’t been publicly disclosed. Both Monaco and Balogun’s representatives insist the player is fully fit and ready to compete. Fabrizio Romano reported, "Monaco and player's camp insist Folarin is ready to play and there are no issues." Everton’s concern remains unclear, leaving room for speculation about what triggered their caution.

Balogun’s Next Steps

With the Premier League window closed and no other offers finalized, Balogun must return to AS Monaco. He will continue playing in Ligue 1 and the UEFA Conference League for the time being. Balogun scored 13 goals in 30 Ligue 1 games last season, so he remains a key figure for Monaco.

There’s still a chance Monaco might sell Balogun or midfielder Lamine Camara to clubs in Turkey or Saudi Arabia before their respective transfer deadlines—September 4 for Turkey and October 12 for Saudi Arabia—to help ease financial pressure.

Ripple Effects of the Failed Transfer

Everton, having sold striker Beto earlier that day, urgently searched for alternatives after Balogun’s deal faltered. They almost secured Manchester United’s Joshua Zirkzee on loan to partner with Thierno Barry, but canceled once Balogun’s transfer seemed salvageable.

Monaco faces serious trouble due to the collapse. The club reportedly missed out on Champions League qualification and faces a €50 million deficit. Sporting director Thiago Scouro’s position is uncertain following the chaotic deadline day.

Monaco had reached an agreement to sell Lamine Camara to Chelsea, who needed midfield reinforcements after Enzo Fernandez’s departure. But once Balogun’s move to Everton appeared possible again, Monaco abruptly canceled the Camara deal at the last moment. English media reported Chelsea’s management was furious, describing Monaco’s behavior as “very unprofessional.”

When Balogun ultimately walked away from Everton, Monaco was left in financial limbo, having failed to sell either player by the deadline.

This delay also prevented Monaco from registering Mexico international Erik Lira, as they couldn’t free up an international roster spot on time. France’s transfer window closed earlier than England’s, meaning they lost a chance to register Lira whether Balogun stayed or left.

• Transfer Window Deadlines:
• Turkish Super Lig: September 4, evening
• Saudi Arabia: October 12
• French Ligue 1: 8 p.m. local (2 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. BST)
• English Premier League: Midnight local time