World Cup hero Balogun in focus: is the US star right for BVB? | OneFootball

He is thrilling the host nation’s fans — and not only them. Folarin Balogun (24) is making a huge impact at the World Cup with the US team. The AS Monaco striker has played his way onto numerous wish lists with his performances.

Two matches, two wins: things are going well for the United States. First, the US boys swept Paraguay aside with a 4-1 win. Then Australia were beaten 2-0. Even before the final group match against the already eliminated Turks, the North Americans have secured first place and a spot in the round of 32.

Right at the heart of the red-white-and-blue celebrations is 24-year-old New Yorker Balogun. With two goals and one assist, he played a key role in reaching the knockout stage. At the World Cup, he is doing exactly what set him apart in Monaco last season: scoring or setting up goals for his teammates. Across all competitions for Monaco, he recorded 24 goal contributions in 43 appearances (19 goals, five assists).

According to The Athletic, Monaco could demand a transfer fee of around €50 million for Balogun. A move of that size would be the second-most expensive transfer ever involving a US player — surpassed only by a former Dortmund man. Christian Pulisic (27) left BVB in 2019 and moved to Chelsea. Price tag: €64 million.

A quartet chasing Balogun

Despite the possible fee, Balogun is reportedly in high demand. According to the report, numerous top clubs from across Europe are chasing the US star. Sports Illustrated reports that the centre-forward would be an ideal fit for five clubs: Arsenal, Chelsea, Newcastle United, Juventus — and Borussia Dortmund.

Photo: Getty Images

According to the report, BVB is seen as an almost traditional springboard for future world stars. That prospect could hold a certain appeal for Balogun after his World Cup displays. Since Serhou Guirassy’s (30) departure already looks realistic this summer, the 24-year-old would be a candidate to fill the gap in Dortmund’s attack. A sale of the Guinean would bring the necessary millions into Dortmund’s coffers to meet Monaco’s asking price.

If Balogun were to choose Borussia, he could follow in the footsteps of Ousmane Dembélé (29), Erling Haaland (25), or Jude Bellingham (22) — including the increase in market value.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.