Everton open talks with Monaco over Balogun as Richarlison and Grealish deals also advance

Everton are in advanced talks with Monaco over USA international Folarin Balogun as the Merseyside club scrambles to reshape its attack before the transfer window closes, with Richarlison and Jack Grealish also in the frame.

The 25-year-old Balogun, who came through Arsenal’s academy, scored 19 goals for Monaco last season but is not expected to sign a new deal with the Ligue 1 club. His availability comes with a notable backdrop: a World Cup ban imposed on the striker was controversially suspended after US president Donald Trump lobbied FIFA president Gianni Infantino.

Balogun’s potential arrival is tied to the departure of Beto, who has attracted interest from Fiorentina. The Portuguese striker has scored 25 goals in 113 appearances for Everton since his £25m move from Udinese in 2023, spending last season sharing the centre-forward role with Thierno Barry.

Separately, Everton are in talks with Tottenham over two deals that could run simultaneously: Richarlison returning to Goodison Park four years after his £60m sale, and Iliman Ndiaye moving in the opposite direction to Spurs. Everton are also progressing in their efforts to bring Jack Grealish back on loan for a second season, with the £100m Manchester City winger considered surplus to requirements at the Etihad.

At the back, Everton are close to signing Fulham right-back Kenny Tete for around £9m, potentially resolving a long-standing gap in their squad.

One deal that will not happen is the sale of teenage midfielder Harrison Armstrong to Nottingham Forest. Manager David Moyes indicated he was reluctant to let the youngster leave, and supporter opposition appears to have settled the matter. Moyes is, however, willing to sanction Beto’s exit as part of the broader attacking reshuffle.