What Went Wrong with Folarin Balogun's Everton Transfer After Medical Tests?

Everything appeared set for USMNT forward Folarin Balogun to make a strong return to the Premier League this summer. The 25-year-old, coming off a notable 2026 FIFA World Cup, was linked with top clubs like Barcelona and Aston Villa before an agreement with Everton took shape. As the transfer window neared its close, the two clubs reportedly settled on terms, and Balogun went for his medical exam with Everton.

The transfer nearly unraveled during the medical, causing disruption for both teams and sparking wide effects across the transfer market. Here's what we know about the breakdown of the deal and what might happen next for the US international.

Why Did Balogun's Transfer to Everton Fail?

Multiple sources including Fabrice Hawkins, Fabrizio Romano, and Ben Jacobs reported that Everton’s transfer for Balogun almost collapsed because of concerns raised during his medical exam. Clubs always conduct physicals to check for any hidden issues with new signings. Although there's no official "pass" or "fail," Everton apparently found something in the tests that made them hesitate to finalize the deal.

Despite this, the two clubs tried renegotiating, agreeing on a lower fee. Everton even requested an extra hour to complete the paperwork, with Balogun arriving at their training ground to sign his contract. Yet, unexpectedly, the player himself declined to sign and left without completing the move, according to David Ornstein.

What Raised Red Flags During Balogun’s Medical?

The exact medical concerns haven’t been made public, and they likely won’t be unless a party chooses to share details. Both AS Monaco and Balogun’s representatives maintain he is fully fit and ready to play. Fabrizio Romano noted, "Monaco and player's camp insist Folarin is ready to play and there are no issues." The differing views between club and player camps remain unclear.

Where Will Balogun Play Now?

With the transfer window closed and no alternative moves, Balogun must return to AS Monaco for the time being. This reunion after wanting to leave is often uneasy. Last season, he scored 13 goals in 30 Ligue 1 matches and will now compete again in Ligue 1, the UEFA Conference League, and the Coupe de France.

Monaco might still try to sell Balogun or midfielder Lamine Camara to clubs in Turkey or Saudi Arabia. The Turkish Super Lig transfer deadline is September 4, while Saudi Arabia allows registrations until October 12, so there could be late moves.

The Wider Impact of Balogun’s Failed Move

When Balogun’s transfer initially stalled, both Monaco and Everton scrambled to adjust their plans. Everton, having sold striker Beto to Fiorentina earlier, urgently sought another forward and nearly secured Joshua Zirkzee from Manchester United on loan. But once Balogun’s deal seemed possible again, the Zirkzee move was canceled.

Monaco faced serious trouble after missing out on Champions League qualification and needing funds. Their sporting director, Thiago Scouro, reportedly faced pressure amid the financial strain, with the club running a €50 million deficit.

Monaco then shifted focus to selling Lamine Camara, reaching an agreement with Chelsea to strengthen their midfield following Enzo Fernandez’s departure. However, when the Balogun deal looked revived, Monaco abruptly canceled the Camara transfer at the last moment. English media reported Chelsea officials were furious, calling Monaco's actions "very unprofessional."

After Balogun ultimately rejected Everton's offer, Monaco ended up without either sale completed as the transfer deadline sounded.

Additionally, Balogun’s delay disrupted Monaco’s roster plans. They couldn’t free an international spot for Mexico’s Erik Lira, whose arrival depended on Balogun’s exit. France’s transfer window closed earlier than England’s, making it impossible to register Lira after the collapse.