Why isn't Folarin Balogun playing for Monaco? Latest on forward's future

U.S. national team forward Folarin Balogun remains with AS Monaco despite a failed $52.3 million transfer to Everton, but his future with the French club is uncertain. Monaco did not include Balogun in their squads for upcoming matches against Paris Saint-Germain and in the UEFA Conference League, and the club is searching for a deal to transfer him elsewhere.

Monaco CEO Scuro confirmed that they are still exploring options and discussing with different players, including Balogun, but it remains unclear where the forward could move to next. The transfer window for Turkey closes on the same day as Monaco's match with PSG, and clubs in Saudi Arabia can sign players until October. Portugal's transfer window stays open until September 15, while Liga MX and the Brazilian league allow signings until September 11.

However, a return to the U.S. is no longer possible as the MLS window closed on September 2. Liga 1's joker rule, which allows clubs to bring in one player from another team in France, could also be an option for Monaco, with Nice's Hicham Boudaoui being a potential target. Yet, few French teams would likely be willing to bear the financial burden of a fee and Balogun's salary.

Balogun's summer has been tumultuous, including a controversial FIFA suspension of his red card, which allowed him to play in the World Cup round of 16 against Belgium after receiving a red card in the previous match.