Everton told Monaco’s updated stance on Folarin Balogun transfer
Everton are facing a tough task to land Folarin Balogun this summer as Monaco have no plans to sell him following some strong World Cup showings.
The Toffees have been linked to Balogun after he shone for Monaco throughout the 2025-26 campaign.
David Moyes is keen to bolster his striker ranks after Thierno Barry and Beto both endured tough seasons on Merseyside.
USA star Balogun was one of Ligue 1's top scorers last term, and started the World Cup in fine form last week with a brace against Paraguay.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, Monaco are set to reject approaches for Balogun as Everton potentially line up a move.
The 24-year-old is unlikely to move anytime soon, regardless of their plans, with his full focus set to be on the USA's World Cup campaign.
Balogun has previous experience of the English game, having grown up in London and come through Arsenal's academy to feature 10 times for the first team between 2020 and 2022.
Everton will find Folarin Balogun move tough as Monaco plan to block approaches
Sources have exclusively revealed to Football Insider that Moyes is an admirer of Balogun and could make a move to sign him this summer.
He registered 19 goals and four assists in 43 appearances across all competitions last season and will hope to fire the USA to a deep World Cup run this summer.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "Well, if he continues to perform like he has done for the USA so far, I'm sure there'll be clubs keeping tabs on his situation.
"Monaco have no plans to lose Balogun right now. He's such a key player for them. He had a very good season for the Principality club last year, but (their plans) won't stop other clubs looking at Balogun.
"I'm sure there'll be teams who are looking to strengthen their forward lines and Balogun is somebody who might figure on their list."
Everton keen on Lois Openda with loan-to-buy deal eyed
Several strikers have emerged onto the Toffees' radar after some poor form from Beto and Barry.
Sources have revealed to Football Insider that Everton are eyeing Juventus' Openda as they look to move him on this summer.
The Belgian forward only scored twice in 34 appearances for the Old Lady last term after joining on loan from RB Leipzig.
They have been forced to sign him permanently after agreeing an obligation to buy last summer, but he could now end up at Everton in an effort to rediscover the form he has previously shown in Germany.