Barcelona identity new target after failing to advance for Osimhen and Alvarez

Barcelona have reportedly entered the race to sign coveted Monaco striker Folarin Balogun as they continue their search for a new centre-forward. 

With the September 1 transfer deadline approaching, Hansi Flick’s side are scrambling to reconstruct an attacking frontline that recently saw the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres.

Hence, the Catalan giants have identified the 25-year-old United States international as the ideal solution to their growing attacking crisis.

Barcelona's pursuit of Balogun represents a shift in their transfer strategy. Sporting director Deco had originally placed Atlético Madrid’s Julián Álvarez at the top of his summer wish list.

However, negotiations for the Argentine superstar have completely stalled. Atlético Madrid's hierarchy has remained incredibly stubborn, flatly refusing to sell their prize forward to a direct domestic rival.

Faced with a dead end in Madrid, Barcelona have expanded their list of alternative targets. Balogun has now emerged as one such target 

Acquiring the American marksman will not be a straightforward task for the Spanish champions. Tottenham Hotspur are already invested in bringing Balogun back to North London.

Spurs have reportedly initiated formal discussions over a deal valued at around €60 million (£51.3m). Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi views the forward as an ideal candidate to inject reliable firepower into an attack that has severely lacked consistency.

The competition extends even further across the Premier League. Aston Villa have also registered concrete interest in Balogun as they closely monitor the market in case Ollie Watkins departs for the Saudi Pro League.

Monaco, on the other hand, are reluctant to sell the USMNT star, with head coach Felipe Luis publicly expressing his admiration for the former Arsenal academy star. 

Balogun's valuation is justified by a solid 2025/26 campaign on the French Riviera. He established himself as one of Europe's most clinical finishers, scoring 19 goals in 43 matches across all competitions for Monaco last season.

He carried that form into the summer, starring as the top scorer for the United States at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Balogun delivered three goals in four matches, helping lead Mauricio Pochettino's squad to the Round of 16 before falling 4-1 to Belgium.