Tottenham told Monaco will accept ‘cheap’ Folarin Balogun offer after contract twist
Tottenham could have the chance to sign Monaco's Folarin Balogun for a reduced fee after registering their interest in his services, sources have told Football Insider.
Balogun emerged as one of the stars of the World Cup as he bagged three goals in four games for the co-hosts in their run to the last 16.
He has attracted widespread interest from across Europe for his exploits on the world stage, having also impressed for Monaco last season.
The 25-year-old scored 19 goals in 43 games for the Ligue 1 club and is now on Spurs' radar as Roberto De Zerbi aims to bolster his forward line.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, Tottenham could swoop to sign him for a cut-price figure due to his contract situation and desire to explore a move away from Monaco.
Balogun has less than two years left on his contract, so the principality club may see this summer as their last chance to let him leave for an acceptable fee.
Tottenham can agree Folarin Balogun deal for lesser fee amid striker search
Recent reports have claimed that Spurs have been offered the chance to sign Balogun as they look to potentially cash in while his stocks are high.
He was born in the USA but raised in London, and made his way through Arsenal's academy as a youngster before joining Monaco for around £25million in 2023.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "Tottenham, as we've mentioned previously, are looking to bolster their attacking reinforcements and bring more players in.
"Balogun could be one who could be available and relatively cheap, because he's only got two years left on his contract, so I don't think Monaco would be demanding too big a fee for the USA striker.
"He's not the only forward on Tottenham's radar. I don't think there's anything too imminent on a possible move for him as well. He's just one of those players that's on the radar for Tottenham, there's nothing advanced on it."
Which other clubs are keen on signing Balogun?
Monaco manager Felipe Luis made it clear last week that he wants Balogun to stay at the club in the face of transfer rumours, saying: "He is one of our players. I know he’s going to receive a lot of offers given his last season and his World Cup performance. If he stays, I’ll be really, really happy to have him with us."
Sources have previously revealed to Football Insider that Everton and Crystal Palace are interested in Balogun as they each look to sign a new centre-forward this summer.
He is also believed to be a target for Juventus and several other Serie A clubs, as well as Borussia Dortmund.