The clubs had reached an agreement on a deal worth approximately £40 million (around €45–48 million plus add-ons), and personal terms were understood to be close. However, the transfer broke down in the final hours after issues arose during Balogun’s medical examination in England.
Everton’s medical staff raised concerns over the player’s fitness. Monaco and Balogun’s representatives insisted he was fully fit and ready to play, but the situation escalated into a standoff. After further negotiations and a reported attempt to restructure the fee, the deal ultimately fell through. Sources indicated that Balogun himself decided not to proceed with the move.
The collapse leaves Everton short of attacking options after the earlier departure of Beto to Fiorentina. The Toffees had scrambled for alternatives, including enquiries for Joshua Zirkzee and Tammy Abraham, but those avenues also failed to materialise before the window closed.
The drama had wider repercussions. Monaco had been prepared to sanction the sale of midfielder Lamine Camara to Chelsea in a deal worth around £47 million. Once the Balogun transfer appeared back on track, Monaco pulled out of the Camara agreement. When Balogun’s move then collapsed, Monaco were left without either major outgoing deal completed.
Balogun, 25, joined Monaco from Arsenal in 2023 and enjoyed a strong 2025/26 season, scoring 19 goals. He also impressed for the United States at the recent World Cup. His future now remains at the Stade Louis II, at least until the next transfer window.
For Everton, the failure to land a recognised centre-forward on deadline day represents a significant setback under manager David Moyes. The club will head into the remainder of the season with limited options in attack after an otherwise active window that included several outgoings and the return of Jack Grealish.
The late collapse of both the Balogun and Camara deals has left Monaco facing an unexpected outcome after a chaotic final day of the summer transfer window.