Everton's Deadline-Day Collapse: Balogun U-Turn Leaves Moyes With Striker Shortage

A Deal Collapses

Everton's January transfer window ended in dramatic fashion as Folarin Balogun rejected a £40 million move to Goodison Park on deadline day, according to multiple reports. The 25-year-old AS Monaco forward had reportedly completed the necessary stages of the transfer and was expected to sign before making a late U-turn.

According to Sports Mole, Everton were left 'stunned' by Balogun's decision. The player had been at the club's Finch Farm training base, and the club had even put a deal sheet in place to allow more time for the transfer to be completed. The initial agreement was worth around $54 million (£40 million), as reported by Heavy.

There had been some back-and-forth over the player's medical, but those concerns were reportedly resolved before Balogun ultimately decided against the move and left Finch Farm.

Striker Shortage

This leaves manager David Moyes with just one recognised senior striker, Thierno Barry, after Beto's departure to Fiorentina was completed as part of the plan to bring in Balogun as a replacement. Sports Mole reports that the collapse leaves the Toffees in an extremely difficult position and that they had explored a last-ditch move for Manchester United's Joshua Zirkzee, which was rejected.

Heavy also mentions that Tammy Abraham was another name discussed. With the window now closed, Everton are left relying on Barry as their only out-and-out senior option until the next transfer window.

A Possible Solution?

With limited options available, Everton have been linked with a move for free agent Anthony Martial. The former Manchester United striker is available after leaving Mexican club Monterrey by mutual agreement in June, as reported by Heavy. Martial made 20 appearances for the Mexican side, scoring once and registering three assists.

On the surface, Martial could offer a solution. He is only 30 years old and boasts significant Premier League experience, having scored 63 goals in 209 appearances for Manchester United, including a 17-goal campaign in the 2019-20 season. His recent record also includes nine goals for AEK Athens. However, his recent form in Mexico raises questions about his fitness and ability to perform at the top level.

Meanwhile, Everton did manage to complete the signing of Jack Grealish from Manchester City, with Iliman Ndiaye moving in the opposite direction, as reported by Sports Mole. However, the club's failure to secure a recognised striker for their new forward line will be the main talking point as the season progresses. The focus will now be on whether Moyes can guide his side through their upcoming fixtures with such limited striking options.