Everton Ready to Try Again? Balogun Could Be a January Target After Summer Transfer Collapse

Everton could reopen negotiations to sign Folarin Balogun from AS Monaco in the January transfer window, after a deal worth around £40 million fell through at the last moment last summer. The claim comes from former Manchester United head of scouting Mick Brown, who believes the door to Goodison Park is not entirely closed.

The failure began when Everton and Monaco had reached an initial agreement, but the medical process raised concerns. The two clubs then revised the payment structure—reducing the guaranteed amount and increasing the share of performance-based payments. Although the agreement documents were sent before the deadline, Balogun chose to pull out because he was unhappy with how the negotiations were conducted.

The impact was significant. Everton had already let Beto go to Fiorentina, while attempts to sign Joshua Zirkzee and Tammy Abraham came to nothing. Thierno Barry was left to carry the forward line alone, and the management decided not to sign a free agent striker such as Mauro Icardi at the time.

Brown, now a transfer analyst, revealed that Everton are still monitoring Balogun's development, including the injury condition that had been an obstacle. "I wouldn't rule out Everton approaching Balogun again. Since the deal failed, they have kept following his situation and I suspect there has already been contact with his representatives," he told Football Insider.

"If they are willing to sit down together, settle their differences, and reach an agreement, that transfer is still very possible."

Even so, Everton still have several issues to sort out. The medical concerns that raised doubts need to be re-evaluated, and trust between the two parties must be rebuilt. However, there are strong reasons to try again: the scouting process is complete, communication with Balogun's camp has been established, and an agreement with Monaco was nearly reached.

On the pitch, Balogun's arrival would give a different dimension to the attack under David Moyes. His speed and movement can stretch opposing defenses, while also reducing excessive pressure on Barry. Relying on a single out-and-out striker throughout a packed season is always risky, especially with the potential for injuries, suspensions, and dips in form.

The report added that Monaco are said to still be willing to let Balogun go in January. However, the player's decision will be just as important as the club's stance. Everton cannot assume Balogun will immediately accept a second offer; the approach must be tidier and much earlier than the deadline-day drama.

For Everton, the January window could be a turning point to fix a fragile forward line. If renegotiation happens, the management will be expected to learn from its mistakes: resolving medical matters from the start, building transparent communication, and avoiding last-minute negotiations. The question is whether this time Everton can convince Balogun that Goodison Park is the right destination.