LeBron James is moving further into football. The former Los Angeles Lakers star, currently a free agent waiting for his next move, had already built a connection with the game through his investment in Liverpool. Now, through Klutch Sports, the agency he founded with Rich Paul, he has added the first footballer to its roster. That footballer is Folarin Balogun. The Monaco striker has become one of the most interesting forwards in Europe, and his World Cup has only added to his profile. The attention has not always come for the right reasons: Balogun’s suspension was overturned by FIFA following President Trump’s intervention. On the pitch, however, he has delivered, scoring three goals in his first four matches. Klutch Sports now has one of the most recognisable young forwards in the game among its clients. The agency also represents LeBron himself, as well as Anthony Davis, three-time Women’s NBA MVP A’ja Wilson and Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts.
Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, Rich Paul explained the decision to bring Balogun into the agency: “He is one of the most talented and influential players in world football. His relentless ambition and cultural impact represent the standard of excellence we want to continue bringing to this sport. We are proud to welcome him to Klutch and excited to build the future together.” Balogun’s arrival reflects a growing presence both on and off the pitch. At the World Cup, he scored twice against Paraguay before finding the net again against Bosnia and Herzegovina, becoming one of the key figures in the United States squad. The move also adds another layer to Klutch’s growing involvement in football. In 2024, the company acquired ROOF, the European agency representing Bayer Leverkusen winger Malik Tillman, Borussia Dortmund forward Gio Reyna, Arsenal and Germany striker Kai Havertz, Tottenham winger Mohammed Kudus and several coaches. Balogun’s signing, though, marks a different step. For the first time, Klutch Sports will directly oversee the career of a high-profile footballer, further establishing itself inside the international game.