Folarin Balogun: US media hail Everton target who was 'so, so good' in World Cup win vs Australia

Everton target Folarin Balogun made another key impact for the United States at the World Cup as they beat Australia 2-0 on Friday to secure their place in the round of 32.

The 24-year-old's resulting cross from his dash down the left flank was turned in by Cameron Burgess to give the host nation the lead.

Alex Freeman headed in the second goal, with Australia ultimately unable to get back into the game.

Everton are among the clubs keeping an eye on Balogun's displays at the World Cup, after the former Arsenal striker scored 19 goals in all competitions for Monaco this season.

The New York-born talent has just two years remaining on his deal with the French club, but will undoubtedly cost more than the £35million he cost to sign in 2023.

The Toffees are considering their options in attack this summer, with RB Leipzig interested in Thierno Barry and Beto's future far from secure.

RB Leipzig contact Everton over Thierno Barry. Included here in window watch. https://t.co/WFFZ73klNE

Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown exclusively told Football Insider this week that Everton could make a move for Balogun this summer.

The Toffees were among a host of clubs interested in the striker when he broke through at Arsenal in 2020.

The young striker's talent had already been clear as he dominated the youth levels and he quickly took to senior football, scoring twice in the Europa League.

Balogun could not find his way into Mikel Arteta's team, however, and following a hugely successful loan at Stade Reims, Arsenal cashed in.

Folarin Balogun has already scored two goals and forced an own goal in just 93 minutes played at the World Cup ⭐️ pic.twitter.com/79525a1xV8

Having inserted a sell-on clause, the Gunners are set to profit from any move he makes this summer, too, which could well be a big one amid his current form.

ESPN awarded Balogun a six out of 10 for his display against Australia, and wrote that he "provided Pochettino with a No. 9 that could drift into different spaces".

A seven out of 10 by GOAL was more complimentary, and they wrote: "So, so good on the first USMNT goal as he used his pace to breeze past the Australian defence. He did so a few more times throughout the game and was unlucky not to get a goal for his efforts."

On paper, Balogun has every tool needed to thrive in the Premier League.

The forward has devastating pace and great strength, with a powerful shot to match. That ability to finish is not always consistent, but when he is on form, there is little stopping him.

Le chef d'oeuvre de pic.twitter.com/9N0NEE5P0L

Last season, Balogun went eight games without a goal in Ligue 1. After scoring against RC Lens, he netted in eight games straight.

The 24-year-old is not the finished package, but he very much feels like a forward worth taking a punt on this summer.