USMNT striker Folarin Balogun signs with LeBron James' Klutch Sports agency

Updated: July 14, 2026 — 11:57 AM EDT By: Martin Rogers

United States forward Folarin Balogun has signed with the high-profile Klutch Sports agency following an eventful World Cup campaign that ended when the national team was eliminated by Belgium in the round of 16.

Balogun was a central figure throughout the USMNT’s tournament run, shining in the team’s victory over Paraguay and scoring three goals in total. He was then embroiled in a World Cup controversy and political storm when his red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina in the round of 32 was suspended, allowing him to play in the losing effort against Belgium.

Klutch, founded by LeBron James’ longtime friend Rich Paul, represents the basketball star and other elite athletes such as Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts and 10-time NBA All-Star Anthony Davis. The agency made the announcement through social media on Monday.

Welcome @balogun! — KLUTCH Sports Group (@KlutchSports) July 13, 2026

In a twist that may or may not be incidental, Balogun twice used James’ iconic “Silencer” celebration against Bosnia — once for a goal that was disallowed and again for the strike that put the Americans ahead.

LFG!!!!!! THE 🤫 HAS 🛬 at the World Cup! Helluva goal there Young 🤴🏾! 🫡. GO 🇺🇸 — LeBron James (@KingJames) July 2, 2026

Paul, Klutch’s CEO, told the Hollywood Reporter that Balogun is “one of the most talented and influential players in global football today,” adding that his “relentless ambition and cultural impact represent the standard of excellence we hope to continue to bring to the sport.”

Balogun has been represented by UK-based Elite Project Group.

Klutch Sports and Soccer Representation

Klutch has not previously delved directly into soccer representation, aside from acquiring European agency roof, which has U.S. midfielders Malik Tillman and Gio Reyna in its stable, as well as some other notable players and coaches.

Transfer Outlook

The move comes at a potentially significant time for Balogun, who could be on the move this summer.

• The Athletic’s David Ornstein has reported Monaco will seek a fee in the region of €50 million (£43.2m; $57.1m) for Balogun.
• A summer transfer is expected, given the level of interest in the 25-year-old from teams in England and Italy.

Career Background

Balogun came through Arsenal’s academy but has scored 31 goals in 91 total appearances for Monaco since joining the Ligue 1 club three years ago, with the deal including a 17.5 percent sell-on clause.

He scored 19 times for Monaco last season in all competitions — including three against Champions League winner PSG — as the club finished seventh in the league.

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