Tottenham-linked Ligue 1 striker is wanted by several other Premier League clubs.
Tottenham Hotspur’s issues in defence and midfield were well documented last season as the club narrowly avoided relegation from the Premier League. Credit where it’s due, the North Londoners have responded swiftly to their disappointing campaign by bringing in three defenders, two midfielders and a goalkeeper. By doing so, they have reinforced the gaps in both positions.
Now, the entire focus has shifted towards addressing the problems in attack. Roberto De Zerbi is in dire need of new attackers as he prepares his squad for the 2026/27 campaign. He cannot rely on both Dominic Solanke and Richarlison for a regular supply of goals due to their injury concerns and a lack of consistency. Plus, Richarlison, in the final year of his contract, has been linked with an exit lately, and if the club cashes him in, De Zerbi’s requirement of a new No.9 would only rise.
Recent reports suggest Tottenham’s interest in signing AS Monaco striker Folarin Balogun. After 19 goals for AS Monaco in 2025-26 and an impressive World Cup campaign, where he scored thrice in four games, the USA international is being heavily linked with a transfer.
Sunderland hold talks with AS Monaco striker Folarin Balogun
According to an exclusive report from TEAMtalk, Sunderland are among the Premier League clubs to have held talks with the representatives of Folarin Balogun. Interest is not confined to England. Borussia Dortmund have made enquiries, while Juventus and Atletico Madrid both admire the AS Monaco player.
Monaco value the USA international at around £40million, a fee that would fetch them substantial profit on the investment they made to sign Balogun from Arsenal in 2023. The report adds that Everton, Leeds United, Newcastle United, Nottingham Forest and Fulham are all monitoring the 25-year-old’s situation closely.
From Tottenham’s perspective, Balogun is a striker who’d flourish in De Zerbi’s system. The American’s ability to operate as a No.9 or secondary striker would hugely benefit the Lilywhites, providing both instant quality and squad depth. He is quick, athletic, strong and likes to play on the shoulders of the last defender, and such a profile is exactly what Spurs are missing at the moment up front.
If De Zerbi is indeed serious in recruiting Balogun, Tottenham must quickly meet Monaco’s £40million asking price and bring him back to North London.