Sunderland have taken the first step toward signing Monaco striker Folarin Balogun after holding talks with his representatives over a potential £40 million deal. The newly promoted Black Cats are exploring every avenue to bring the USA international back to English football after his breakthrough 25/26 season in Ligue 1.
What’s the latest on Balogun’s move to Sunderland?
According to TEAMtalk’s Graeme Bailey, Sunderland have already begun gathering transfer information and are in direct contact with Balogun’s camp. The 25-year-old finished last season with 19 goals and four assists in 43 appearances for Monaco, helping the Ligue 1 side secure another season of European football. His consistency in front of goal has made him one of the most sought-after strikers in Europe this summer.
Balogun’s path to stardom has not been smooth. After progressing through Arsenal’s Hale End academy, he spent loan spells at Middlesbrough and Reims, where a 21-goal campaign convinced Monaco to pay around £34 million for him in 2023. His first year in the principality was inconsistent, but he has now delivered on that investment with a career-best return.
Why does Balogun fit Sunderland’s needs?
Sunderland need a striker who can deliver consistently against Premier League opposition. Balogun has already shown he can lead an attack, and his World Cup performances this summer only strengthened his reputation. He scored twice against Paraguay and led the line for the USA throughout the tournament, despite a controversial red card against Bosnia that later had its ban overturned by FIFA.
The Black Cats are targeting a forward who has already proven himself at the highest level, not just potential. With Brian Brobbey already in their ranks, Balogun would provide genuine competition up front and add depth to a squad pushing for European spots. As of 24 Jul 2026, Sunderland sit 7th in the Premier League with 54 points from 38 games and a recent run of WWDDL form.
What stands in the way of a deal?
Monaco are under no immediate pressure to sell, and Balogun’s performances have pushed his value even higher. Sunderland must compete with several clubs offering European football or higher wages, meaning the asking price of around £40 million may rise further. The transfer window is still open, but time is tight.
Balogun’s profile has grown so much that even a £40 million bid may not be enough to prise him away from the principality. Still, simply being in the conversation for a player of his calibre shows how far Sunderland have come in a remarkably short space of time, especially after their impressive recruitment over the past year.
Sunderland host Hull City on 2 January 2027, with the Tigers sitting 6th in the table. The next few weeks will decide whether Balogun becomes the Black Cats’ next marquee signing or remains in Ligue 1 for now.
