Folarin Balogun linked with AS Monaco departure in January amid Everton interest

United States international Folarin Balogun is expected to leave AS Monaco during the January transfer window, with the French club also reportedly willing to sanction his departure.

According to French newspaper L’Équipe, the 25-year-old striker is still interested in finding a new challenge after coming close to joining English Premier League side Everton during last summer’s transfer window.

Monaco are also keen to offload the forward as they look to recover financially from the collapse of his proposed move to the Toffees.

Monaco ready to cash in on Balogun

Balogun’s potential departure would allow Monaco to generate funds and restore balance to their transfer budget, which was affected by the failed Everton deal.

The American forward remains under contract with the Principality club until 2028, meaning Monaco could demand a significant transfer fee for his services.

Everton came close to securing his signature last summer, but the move ultimately failed to materialise.

Balogun gradually regaining form

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Balogun has gradually worked his way back into Monaco’s first-team plans.

Reinstated into Filipe Luís’ squad in mid-September, the striker has featured in each of the club’s last five Ligue 1 matches.

He also ended his wait for a goal this season by finding the net against Paris FC last weekend, although his effort could not prevent Monaco from suffering a 3-1 defeat.

The United States international, who has 31 caps and 12 goals for his country, will now face an uncertain future as the January transfer window approaches.