Folarin Balogun Undergoes Everton Medical but Ultimately Rejects Transfer

Everton’s proposed transfer for Folarin Balogun collapsed after the striker underwent a medical at the club’s Finch Farm training ground and subsequently changed his mind.

Following complications identified during the medical examination, Everton and Monaco were forced to renegotiate the initial £40 million transfer fee for the 25-year-old.

Although the United States international and both clubs had signed a deal sheet prior to the 23:00 BST transfer deadline, Balogun ultimately decided against the move and walked away from the agreement.

Balogun emerged as a late target for the Toffees after forward Beto finalized a permanent transfer to Serie A side Fiorentina.

Everton also explored potential moves for Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee and Aston Villa forward Tammy Abraham, but the club was unable to persuade either player to join.

On transfer deadline day, Everton secured the signing of Jack Grealish on a season-long loan from Manchester City.

Grealish previously spent the 2025-26 campaign on loan at Everton, featuring in 20 matches before sustaining a season-ending foot injury in January.

The 30-year-old had been connected with several other clubs, including his boyhood team Aston Villa, but chose to reunite with manager David Moyes on Merseyside.

“I believe I am at my best in all aspects of life, not just football, when I feel valued and supported. That is exactly what the manager, my teammates, and particularly the fans have provided me,” Grealish stated.

“Every time I encounter an Everton supporter, it is nothing but pure affection. The way they embraced me since my very first match against Leeds is something I will never forget.”

Grealish, who initially transferred to Manchester City from Aston Villa for £100 million in August 2021, netted two goals and recorded six assists in 20 appearances during his prior stint with Everton, earning the Premier League Player of the Month award for August.

The England international made his return from injury during Manchester City’s Community Shield loss to Arsenal on August 16.

He additionally featured under Enzo Maresca in Manchester City’s opening match of the 2026-27 Premier League campaign, a 2-1 victory over Bournemouth.

Everton have also finalized the acquisition of Ainsley Maitland-Niles from French club Lyon.

The 29-year-old former Arsenal star has earned five caps for England and is capable of playing as a full-back or in midfield.

Meanwhile, Scottish right-back Nathan Patterson has finalized a permanent transfer to Serie A club Torino.

Patterson, 24, signed with Everton from Rangers in January 2022 and accumulated 68 appearances across all competitions.

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