AS Monaco head coach Filipe Luís has made clear his desire to retain striker Folarin Balogun this summer, even as the club braces for a wave of transfer offers following the American’s standout performance at the World Cup.
Balogun, who turned heads with an impactful campaign for the United States, including three goals in four matches during the co-hosts’ run to the last 16, has attracted growing interest from across Europe as a result. Speaking to reporters after Monaco’s 1-0 pre-season win over Getafe last week, Luís described the 25-year-old as one of the club’s key players, acknowledging that a significant number of offers were likely given his form last season and his showing at the World Cup, but stressing his intention to keep him in the squad.
Monaco appear to hold a strong hand in any negotiations. Balogun, who joined from Arsenal in 2023, is under contract until June 2028, giving the club firm control over the situation even as reported interest builds from clubs including Tottenham Hotspur, with some reports suggesting the Ligue 1 club could accept a reduced fee given his relatively long remaining contract. Other reports in recent weeks have named Crystal Palace and Everton among the clubs monitoring the striker’s situation, though no formal negotiations have been confirmed by any party.
Balogun scored 19 goals in 43 appearances for Monaco last season, cementing his place as one of the club’s most productive attacking players. With Luís keen to build on Monaco’s positive pre-season form and fully integrate the striker into his tactical setup, the coming weeks are likely to test the club’s resolve as rival sides continue to weigh up potential approaches before the transfer window closes.