Everton’s proposed move for United States striker Folarin Balogun has collapsed after the 25-year-old changed his mind and walked away from the transfer following a medical at the club’s Finch Farm training base.
The deal, which initially involved a £40 million fee, was renegotiated between Everton and Monaco after issues emerged during Balogun’s medical.
Despite the developments, Balogun and both clubs had signed a deal sheet before the transfer window closed at 23:00 BST. However, the striker subsequently decided against completing the move.
Balogun became a late target for Everton after Guinea-Bissau striker Beto completed a permanent transfer to Serie A side Fiorentina.
The Toffees also explored possible moves for Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee and Aston Villa striker Tammy Abraham, but neither player could be convinced to join the club.
With the Balogun deal ultimately collapsing, Everton were unable to add the Monaco forward to their attacking options.
Everton did, however, complete a major deadline-day deal by bringing Jack Grealish back to the club on a season-long loan from Manchester City.
Grealish spent the 2025-26 season at Everton on loan, making 20 appearances before a foot injury ended his campaign in January.
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The 30-year-old had attracted interest from several clubs, including his boyhood side Aston Villa, but chose to reunite with Everton manager David Moyes on Merseyside.
Speaking about his return, Grealish said he performs at his best when he feels appreciated by those around him.
“I think I’m at my best at everything in life, not just football, when I feel loved. That’s what the manager has given me, what my team-mates have given me and especially what the fans have given me,” Grealish said. He also praised Everton supporters for the reception they gave him during his first spell at the club.
Grealish joined Manchester City from Aston Villa for £100 million in August 2021 before moving to Everton on loan for the 2025-26 season.
During his previous spell with Everton, he scored twice and provided six assists in 20 appearances. His performances also earned him the Premier League Player of the Month award for August.
The England international returned from injury during Manchester City’s Community Shield defeat by Arsenal on 16 August.
He also featured for City under Enzo Maresca in their opening Premier League fixture of the 2026-27 campaign, helping them secure a 2-1 victory over Bournemouth.
Everton also completed the signing of Ainsley Maitland-Niles from French club Lyon on transfer deadline day.
The 29-year-old, who previously played for Arsenal, has earned five England caps and provides versatility, having operated both as a full-back and in midfield.
His arrival adds further depth and experience to Everton’s squad as they prepare for the new Premier League campaign.
Meanwhile, Scotland right-back Nathan Patterson has completed a permanent move from Everton to Serie A side Torino.
Patterson joined Everton from Rangers in January 2022 and went on to make 68 appearances across all competitions. The 24-year-old now begins a new chapter in Italy after ending his spell at Goodison Park.
News Express
