Everton reportedly remain in contact to sign AS Monaco forward Folarin Balogun, as per Football Insider.
Despite selling Beto to Fiorentina on deadline day, the Toffees failed to sign a new striker. So, David Moyes has started the new campaign with Thierno Barry as the only striker option.
After moving to the Hill Dickinson Stadium from Villarreal, Barry displayed average performances last term. However, he has enjoyed a promising start this season, scoring five goals and registering a solitary assist in seven appearances across all competitions.
Everton have even started the new season strongly under Moyes, accumulating nine points from five games. They are still unbeaten this campaign.
Now, Football Insider state that Moyes’ side came close to signing Balogun this summer before the deal fell through.
However, they remain keen on him and have continued to hold talks with the player’s representatives over a potential swoop in January or next summer.
The report claim that with Balogun attracting attention from other clubs and having decided not to join Everton this summer, the Merseyside club may find it difficult to persuade him to join.
Balogun to Everton
With the player’s existing deal set to run until 2028, Monaco might be open to letting him leave next year to make the most profit out of his departure.
Balogun, valued at around £42m by Transfermarkt, showed glimpses of his qualities at Stade Louis II last term, making 23 goal contributions across all competitions. He even enjoyed a promising World Cup with the USA this summer.
However, Balogun has found himself on the periphery this season. He is a striker by trait but is also comfortable on the flanks. He is quick, strong, good in the air, can hold up the play, and works hard without possession.
The 25-year-old is a talented player and is currently at the prime stage of his career. Moreover, he knows the Premier League, having previously played for Arsenal.
Therefore, he would be a shrewd acquisition for Everton should they purchase him. However, it is going to be interesting to see whether the Merseyside club eventually manage to secure his services.
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