Chelsea have been given the go-ahead to pursue a deal for Folarin Balogun, with AS Monaco now actively seeking a replacement for the United States forward, according to reports. The move comes as Chelsea look to bolster their attacking options ahead of the 2026-27 season.
Balogun joined Monaco last summer from Arsenal for a reported fee of €40 million, becoming a key player for the Ligue 1 side. He scored 13 goals in 31 appearances across all competitions, showcasing his potential as a prolific striker. However, Monaco’s search for a replacement suggests they are resigned to losing the 22-year-old.
Chelsea have been linked with several forwards this summer, but Balogun’s profile appears to fit their requirements. The Blues are undergoing a period of transition under their new manager, and adding a young, dynamic striker like Balogun could be a significant step forward. The club is reportedly keen to build around promising young talent, and Balogun certainly fits that criteria.
Arsenal were also previously linked with a move to bring Balogun back to the Emirates Stadium, but appear to have shifted their focus to other targets. They allowed him to depart last year despite his promising performances in pre-season, and it seems unlikely they will attempt to re-sign him this summer. The Gunners have reportedly agreed personal terms with Bradley Barcola of Paris Saint-Germain.
While the exact fee has not yet been disclosed, Chelsea will likely have to meet Monaco’s asking price, which is expected to be in a similar range to the fee they paid Arsenal last year. Securing Balogun would provide Chelsea with a valuable attacking asset and strengthen their squad depth as they compete in both domestic and European competitions.
