Tottenham have opened talks with Monaco over a deal for Folarin Balogun, according to reports in France. The Premier League club have reportedly made a move for the 25-year-old striker 'in recent hours' and have 'laid the groundwork' for a deal worth €60 million (£51.2m).
Balogun's Career So Far
Monaco signed Balogun in a £35 million deal from Arsenal three years ago. Since then, the United States international has scored 31 goals in 91 games for the Ligue 1 side.
Balogun also impressed at the World Cup this summer, scoring three goals in four appearances for the United States. He was at the centre of controversy at the tournament after United States President Donald Trump personally called FIFA president Gianni Infantino to ask for the striker's red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina to be overturned.
Interest from Other Clubs
According to L'Equipe, Newcastle United and clubs in Spain have also registered their interest in Balogun this summer. Spurs' move for a new striker comes after Dominic Solanke missed their 1-1 draw with Getafe last Saturday due to an ankle problem.
Solanke started just 12 games in all competitions last season after undergoing ankle surgery last September. Roberto De Zerbi has also raised doubt over Richarlison's future, as the Brazilian has just a year left on his contract with Spurs.
De Zerbi's Comments on Richarlison
'He's unbelievable in terms of attitude and behaviour. But, in the end, we have to respect what he wants to do,' De Zerbi said last week. 'I didn't understand well because sometimes he says he wants to stay, sometimes he wants to leave. We have to speak anyway. There is not any problem. He's a lovely guy.'
