Folarin Balogun move to Everton in doubt, Erik Lira switch to Monaco could stall | OneFootball

Folarin Balogun’s proposed transfer from Monaco to Everton is in doubt, and the United States forward could now stay. That scenario would also impede Monaco’s pursuit of Mexican midfielder Erik Lira.

L'Équipe reports that the 25-year-old had appeared close to joining Everton, despite interest also emerging from Aston Villa and Barcelona. Balogun has been at Monaco for three years and is under contract until 2028.

Monaco, who visit Paris on Friday, would therefore retain a key attacker. He has made 91 appearances and scored 31 goals for the club.

The situation is said to hinge on Everton first completing Iliman Ndiaye’s transfer to Manchester City by midnight, the English market deadline, a deal that has been slow to finalise.

If Balogun stays, Monaco would likely no longer be in a position to sign Lira, who had until 20:00 to commit. A loan for Jean-Mattéo Bahoya was also discussed, but Monaco ended talks and the Frankfurt winger, 21, is now due for a medical at Leeds.

Source: L'Équipe

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”