How Folarin Balogun's Everton Transfer Collapsed After Medical Exams

The move for USMNT forward Folarin Balogun to return to the Premier League with Everton appeared certain this summer. The 25-year-old had drawn interest from clubs like Barcelona and Aston Villa before the Everton deal took shape. As transfer deadline day approached, both clubs reportedly agreed on terms, and Balogun went in for his medical exam at Everton.

Yet, the deal nearly collapsed at the last minute, causing disruption across the market. Here's what happened during that dramatic transfer saga and what lies ahead for Balogun.

Why Did Everton Back Out of the Deal?

Sources including Fabrice Hawkins, Fabrizio Romano, and Ben Jacobs revealed that Everton’s last-minute hesitation came after a medical exam raised concerns. While medicals usually don’t have clear pass or fail outcomes, something flagged during the tests caused Everton to pause.

Despite this, the clubs renegotiated the fee, with Everton requesting a brief extension to complete the paperwork. Balogun even arrived at Everton’s training ground ready to sign, but surprisingly, he decided not to finalize the contract and left without signing, as reported by David Ornstein.

What Was the Medical Issue?

The exact reason for Everton’s concern during Balogun’s medical is unknown and unlikely to be publicly disclosed. Monaco and Balogun’s representatives maintain that he is fit to play, disputing Everton’s assessment. According to Romano, "Monaco and player's camp insist Folarin is ready to play and there are no issues."

Balogun’s Next Step After the Failed Transfer

With the transfer window closed and no alternative moves lined up, Balogun must return to AS Monaco for the immediate future. This reunion may feel awkward since both sides had hoped to part ways. Last season, Balogun scored 13 goals in 30 Ligue 1 appearances and will now compete in Ligue 1, the Coupe de France, and the UEFA Conference League.

Monaco might still consider selling Balogun or midfielder Lamine Camara to clubs in Turkey or Saudi Arabia, where transfer windows remain open until early October.

The Transfer Market Ripple Effects

Everton, having sold striker Beto to Fiorentina earlier that day, scrambled for replacements when the Balogun deal wavered. They quickly arranged a loan for Joshua Zirkzee from Manchester United, aiming to pair him with Thierno Barry. Once Balogun’s transfer seemed viable again, the Zirkzee loan was canceled.

Meanwhile, Monaco faced financial strain and needed sales to cover a €50 million deficit after missing Champions League qualification. They negotiated with Chelsea for Lamine Camara, but canceled the deal abruptly when the Balogun move looked possible. Reports indicated Chelsea officials were furious over Monaco’s conduct, labeling it "very unprofessional." When Balogun ultimately rejected Everton, Monaco was left without key transfers completed, intensifying their financial troubles.

Balogun’s delayed departure also prevented Monaco from opening an international roster slot needed to register Mexico’s Erik Lira before France’s earlier transfer deadline. This blocked Lira’s arrival, as Monaco couldn’t find another solution in time.