Barcelona turn to Folarin Balogun after Julian Alvarez move stalls

Barcelona have identified Monaco striker Folarin Balogun as a leading target as they look to strengthen their attack before the 2026-27 season, with the club preparing for the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres.

The Catalan club have made serious enquiries about the 25-year-old United States international, according to French newspaper L’Equipe. Their interest puts them in competition with Tottenham and Aston Villa, who have been monitoring Balogun for some time.

Barcelona’s sporting director Deco has made signing a recognised centre-forward a top priority. Their pursuit of Julian Alvarez has run into difficulties, prompting the club to widen its list of options with manager Hansi Flick involved in the process.

With just over 10 days remaining before the transfer window closes on 1 September, Barcelona must decide whether Balogun is the player they want to pursue or whether to continue examining alternatives.

Balogun strengthened his case with an outstanding campaign for Monaco, scoring 19 goals in 43 appearances across all competitions. He remains under contract with the French club until June 2028, meaning Monaco are under no obligation to sell and would demand a substantial fee for his signature.

His reputation grew further during the 2026 World Cup, staged in the United States. Balogun finished as his country’s top scorer with three goals in four matches and helped Mauricio Pochettino’s side reach the last 16.

The United States were then eliminated by Belgium, losing 4-1, but Balogun’s performances ensured he remained one of the tournament’s most prominent attacking players.

His involvement in the competition was also surrounded by significant controversy. A disputed decision allowed him to play in the last-16 match despite being suspended, following intervention from United States president Donald Trump. The decision prompted widespread anger across the football community.

Monaco are aware that interest in Balogun is likely to intensify during the closing days of the transfer window. Although he was absent from the club’s most recent match against Gornik Zabrze in the first leg of their UEFA Conference League qualifying tie, Monaco included him on their list submitted to UEFA.

That decision could have an impact on any potential transfer and may complicate negotiations with interested clubs.

Barcelona now face a pressing decision. They can turn their interest into a formal offer for one of the most controversial talking points of the 2026 World Cup, or move on to other candidates as they seek to complete Flick’s squad.

The situation has also prompted wider debate among supporters, with the subject and related news available for further discussion on the Kooora forums.