Everton agree £40m deal for US star striker Folarin Balogun from Monaco

Everton have reached a £40m agreement with Monaco to secure the services of US striker Folarin Balogun as they aim to bolster their attacking lineup ahead of the transfer deadline, reports the BBC. The 25-year-old Balogun was a top priority for the club, even though they had been considering a deal for former Tottenham striker Richarlison, whose personal terms were not met.

Balogun, who moved from Arsenal to Monaco in 2023, has netted 31 goals in 91 appearances across all competitions for the French side and has also been a vital player for the USA national team, scoring 12 goals in 31 international outings. Balogun also faced controversy during the recent World Cup after receiving a red card against Bosnia-Herzegovina, but FIFA's disciplinary committee reduced his suspension to a year, enabling him to play in the USA's subsequent match against Belgium.

Balogun scored three goals in the tournament and will be eager to further his career in the Premier League with his new club. Everton's pursuit of Balogun comes after failed attempts to sign Richarlison and Iliman Ndiaye, both of whom were set to join Tottenham and Manchester City respectively for upwards of £65 million.