Crystal Palace backed to swoop for Folarin Balogun if two stars complete moves - ex-chief scout
Crystal Palace are keeping tabs on Folarin Balogun's performances at the World Cup in case they are forced into the market for a striker.
The 24-year-old has enjoyed an outstanding World Cup campaign so far, having found the net three times in three games as the USA progressed into the round of 16.
Crystal Palace are among a number of Premier League teams who have been long-term admirers of the striker, dating back to his departure from Arsenal in 2023.
Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Palace's interest in Balogun has lingered, but he is not a top target unless other players are sold.
The Eagles currently have three big-name strikers on the books in Jean-Philippe Mateta, Jorgen Strand Larsen and Eddie Nketiah, and are not prioritsing the position.
However, amid doubts about the futures of both Mateta and Nketiah, major sales would force Crystal Palace to enter the market, and Balogun is firmly on their radar.
Could Crystal Palace make a move to sign Folarin Balogun?
Football Insider first revealed in 2023 that Crystal Palace were interested in signing Balogun as Arsenal prepared to accept offers off the back of a strong season on loan in Ligue 1.
The striker ultimately opted to remain in France, making the move to Monaco, but could now return to the Premier League following a strong World Cup campaign.
Crystal Palace are understood to have retained their admiration of Balogun, but whether they reignite their pursuit will depend on any potential departures.
"Balogun is having a very good tournament at the World Cup, so it's not a surprise there is interest," Brown told Football Insider.
"A lot of Premier League clubs will have been aware of him from his time at Arsenal, and that's the same now he's gone to Monaco with his performances in France.
"For Crystal Palace, signing a striker isn't a priority because of the options they've already got in that position with Mateta, Strand Larsen and Nketiah.
"They may well be admirers of Balogun and will be keeping an eye on him, but at the moment, I wouldn't expect them to make a move.
"That could all change, though, if they are able to move Nketiah on and then they end up losing Mateta as well, because there's uncertainty about both of them.
"So there's a lot that has to happen before they decide to sign a new striker, but it's not completely off the cards, because both of those players could move on.
"It's not something Palace are planning for currently, they'd rather keep players at the club than have to replace them, but they're aware of Balogun and he could be an option."
How do Monaco feel about selling Balogun?
Crystal Palace are far from the only club in the Premier League and across Europe who have been impressed by Balogun's performances at the World Cup this summer.
However, Football Insider revealed on 20 June that Monaco are not looking to part ways with Balogun, and it will be difficult for any club to convince them to sell.
The USA international scored 19 goals and provided five assists across all competition for the French club, and has continued his form on the international stage.
As a result, any move to lure him away will need to include a significant fee to convince the French side to sell, and whether any clubs are prepared to move has yet to be seen.