Everton have agreed to sign striker Folarin Balogun from Monaco for a fee of £40 million. The deal was confirmed on August 31, just before the transfer window closed at 2200 GMT on September 1, as reported by the Straits Times Sport. The 25-year-old American international joins an Everton side sitting sixth in the Premier League with four points from their first two matches. The club has scored three goals and conceded one so far this season, leaving them two points behind leaders Manchester City.
Who is Folarin Balogun?
Folarin Balogun arrives from Monaco, where he scored 31 goals in 91 appearances after joining from Arsenal for £35 million three years ago. His time in France included experience in the Champions League. Everton's need for attacking reinforcement is clear, especially with Christian Nørgaard currently sidelined, as shown on the club's injuries page. Balogun's arrival provides a fresh option for manager Sean Dyche as he looks to build on a solid start to the campaign.
What does the deal mean for Everton's squad?
This major signing is part of a significant reshuffle of Everton's attacking resources. The club recently sanctioned the sale of Iliman Ndiaye to Manchester City for a deal worth up to £65 million. City will pay an initial £60 million, with a potential further £5 million in add-ons. Ndiaye, who joined Everton from Marseille for £15 million two years ago, scored six goals last season. His departure created both a financial boost and a vacancy in the forward line that Balogun is now expected to fill.
Could Richarlison also return to Everton?
The transfer activity has sparked conversation about a potential return for former Everton favourite Richarlison. The 29-year-old Tottenham striker, who played for the Toffees from 2018 to 2022, recently made his feelings clear. "After everything I’ve been through in the last few years, I’ve decided that never again will anyone decide my future for me," Richarlison said. He added, "I’ve always made it clear, every time I had the chance, that leaving for another club would only happen if it was also good for the club." Richarlison, who scored 12 goals for Spurs last season, stated he would be happy to rejoin Everton if an agreement is reached, though he remains under contract at Tottenham.
What is Everton's current situation?
Everton's early-season form, with a win and a draw, provides a stable platform for new signings to integrate. The club's next challenge is a home match against Manchester United on September 6. Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming matches on the official fixtures schedule. The £40 million acquisition of Balogun represents a major investment in the club's immediate future, aiming to add firepower to a squad that is already competitive in the early table. You can view the latest Premier League standings to see how Everton's position evolves. The deal was finalized as Manchester City also completed the £34.2 million signing of Allan Elias from Palmeiras, and Tottenham held talks for Mykhailo Mudryk on loan.
