Tottenham open talks to sign Folarin Balogun from Monaco
Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly opened discussions with Monaco over a potential move for Folarin Balogun, as head coach Roberto De Zerbi intensifies his search for a new centre-forward ahead of the 2026-27 season.
The North London club have already invested heavily in defensive and midfield reinforcements this summer, and attention has now shifted toward improving an attack that lacked consistency last season.
Solanke injury adds urgency
A fresh injury concern surrounding Dominic Solanke has increased the urgency of Tottenham’s striker pursuit. The England forward missed the recent friendly against Getafe with an ankle problem, leaving Richarlison as the club’s only available senior striker.
Solanke’s fitness issues have raised concerns about Tottenham’s depth at centre-forward, particularly with a demanding Premier League and European schedule approaching.
Richarlison future remains unclear
Richarlison’s long-term future is also uncertain. The Brazilian has been linked with a move away from Spurs, and De Zerbi has publicly indicated that the club will respect the player’s wishes if he decides to leave.
The Italian coach recently described Richarlison’s attitude as excellent but acknowledged that discussions about his future would continue during pre-season.
Balogun emerges as leading target
According to reports in France, Tottenham have made contact with Monaco in recent days and begun laying the groundwork for a deal worth around €60 million (£51 million).
Balogun joined Monaco from Arsenal in 2023 and has scored 31 goals in 91 appearances for the Ligue 1 club. The 25-year-old USA international also enhanced his reputation at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he scored three goals before the United States were eliminated by Belgium in the Round of 16.
Why Balogun fits De Zerbi’s system
Balogun offers mobility, pressing intensity and the ability to run in behind defences, qualities that align with De Zerbi’s preferred attacking style. He is comfortable operating as a lone striker and has experience playing in possession-dominant systems from his time at Arsenal and Monaco.
His age profile also fits Tottenham’s broader recruitment strategy, with the club continuing to target players entering their prime years rather than short-term veteran solutions.
Competition from Newcastle and Spain
Tottenham are not alone in the race. Reports indicate that Newcastle United and several clubs in Spain are also monitoring Balogun’s situation, although Spurs are believed to be attempting to move quickly in order to gain an advantage.
Any deal will depend on Monaco’s valuation and Balogun’s willingness to return to North London after leaving Arsenal. Negotiations are understood to be at an early stage, but Tottenham’s interest appears genuine as they continue to reshape the squad under De Zerbi.
With the transfer window entering a crucial phase, securing another striker is increasingly viewed as a priority rather than an optional addition, especially if Solanke’s recovery is slower than expected or Richarlison departs before the deadline.
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