Folarin Balogun has had a wonderful start to the 2026 World Cup with the United States men’s national team, and it seems like that start could lead to him finding a new club after the tournament is done. Rumors have been swirling about Balogun leaving Monaco, where he signed from Arsenal in a €30 million move in 2023, for another club in a transfer that could be as high as €50 million ($57 million).
That would be the second-highest transfer ever for an American player after Christian Pulisic’s $73
million move to Chelsea in 2019 from Borussia Dortmund.
The USMNT forward got a brace in their opening match against Paraguay, the first USMNT player to get a brace in a World Cup match since Bert Patenaude did it in 1930, also against Paraguay. And, with his continued play in the World Cup, there will be no shortage of interest from clubs looking to land the Brooklyn-born player who turns 25 on July 3rd and had 19 goals and 5 assists in 43 appearances this season for Monaco.
So, which clubs could be the best landing fit? We take a look at three that could thrive from a Balogun transfer.
Borussia Dortmund
Dortmund has been a pretty good stop for American players over the years, from Jovan Kirovski to Christian Pulisic. Having Balogun as a quality option up front would open him up to get even better than he is. And, it feels like a great match for both Balogun and American fans who would love to see him in a league that has prime TV access in the United States.
Newcastle United
Despite bringing in multiple expensive strikers last offseason, the Magpies look to be headed to the transfer market again to try and find some capable players. Balogun could fit that role, though he would face stiff competition from Nick Woltemade, William Osula and Yoane Wissa when it comes to minutes. Considering the club missed out on European play as well, Balogun would have to be convinced by the project and Eddie Howe’s vision.
Crystal Palace
Imagine Balogun joining up with his USMNT teammate Chris Richards, as Crystal Palace look to enter a new period of success after Oliver Glasner’s departure? The club will be in Europe after winning the UEFA Conference League, but they struggled in the Premier League and could be looking to add some talent for the number of matches they will have to play this coming season. Would they meet Monaco’s price and beat out other big clubs? That’s the major question.
He’d also be reunited with former Arsenal teammate Eddie Nketiah.
We’ll continue to watch where Balogun ends up moving for the 2026-27 season, or if he decides to stay in Monaco and Ligue 1. As the World Cup continues, USMNT fans hope that Balogun can add to his goal totals and keep the momentum rolling for the co-hosts.
