david moyes
david moyes
Everton have now struck a deal to sign World Cup star Folarin Balogun from Monaco as they look to end the summer transfer window with a bang. The Toffees are expected to add more than one player to their attack before the window closes, and they have now agreed a deal worth €50million, or £42.8million to sign a new striker.
Balogun, who dazzled for USMNT during the summer World Cup, was caught up in the whole Donald Trump-FIFA scandal after his suspension was overturned, but he scored three goals in four games before that point to establish himself as his nation's star man.
The former Arsenal striker also impressed with club side Monaco last season, scoring 13 times in 30 games, also providing three assists.
He will now join Everton, with Fabrizio Romano reporting on X: EXCL: Everton reach club to club agreement with AS Monaco for Folarin Balogun. €45m fixed fee, €5m add-ons and sell-on clause too agreed with #EFC, Monaco are ready to sell. Negotiations ongoing tonight on personal terms; final key step to get it done."
Everton are expected to be busy late in the window, which shuts at 11pm on Tuesday night, with Manchester City and former Toffees loan star Jack Grealish also tipped to arrive, while Iliman Ndiaye is headed to City on a separate deal.
It could be a real rush to the deadline for the Toffees, who will be hoping to put together a good run to European qualification this season. They showed real signs of growth under Moyes last season, and there will be a feeling that they can push on and land a top seven finish this season, especially if they can bring back Grealish, already adding to their front line and maintaining a strong back line.
Everton's summer signings so far
Brennan Johnson
Merlin Rohl
Tyrique George
Hayden Hackney
Christian Norgaard
Folarin Balogun (pending)
Balogun a 'clinical' striker
Folarin Balogun
Folarin Balogun
Balogun has been described as a 'clinical' striker by USMNT teammate Mark McKenzie, who said: "Obviously he's a striker who's very versatile. He can hurt you on the dribble, hurt you in behind, he's a clinical finisher."
Meanwhile, another teammate of Balogun's in Christian Pulisic has described him as a 'killer' in front of goal.
Jack Grealish
Jack Grealish