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AS Monaco head coach Filipe Luis has made it clear he wants to keep striker Folarin Balogun, even though he expects strong transfer interest in the forward. The United States international impressed at the World Cup and is likely to draw major attention before the transfer window closes.

Luis is keen to hold on to Balogun.

The Monaco boss has openly underlined his determination to retain Balogun as speculation over a possible move gathers pace. The 25-year-old United States international is widely expected to have no shortage of admirers before the window shuts. Balogun enjoyed an excellent World Cup, with his influential displays on the biggest stage bringing him into sharper focus.

His strong performances for club and country have alerted a number of European sides. Even with transfer rumours continuing to build, Monaco are intent on keeping one of their most important attacking players. Luis views the American striker as a vital part of his plans for the new season.

Monaco manager hails 'special' striker.

Speaking to the media after Monaco's 1-0 pre-season friendly win over Getafe on Thursday, Luis was full of praise for the former Reims striker. The Brazilian coach also acknowledged that bids for the player now appear almost inevitable.

"He is one of our players. I know he’s going to receive a lot of offers given his last season and his World Cup performance," Luis said, as quoted by MaxiFoot. "He’s a special player. You don’t find many players on the market with his attributes. If he stays, I’ll be really, really happy to have him with us."

High market value and a long contract.

Balogun's stock has risen sharply after his productive displays in Ligue 1 and a World Cup campaign that made headlines. His tournament included several major talking points, among them a red card incident that was later unexpectedly overturned.

Monaco, however, are in a strong position if transfer talks do arise. The Principality club has considerable leverage in any future negotiations. The American forward remains under a long-term contract at Stade Louis II, with his current deal running until June 2028. That agreement leaves the Ligue 1 side firmly in control of his future as interest in him continues to grow.

Monaco now turn their attention to preparing for the new season.

After Thursday's friendly victory over Getafe, Monaco will look to build further momentum. Luis is still eager to fully integrate Balogun into his tactical plans for the matches ahead. The next few weeks could test Monaco's resolve if rival clubs decide to make formal moves for the 25-year-old striker. Should Monaco succeed in resisting that interest, Luis will have one of the most distinctive attacking talents in the French top flight available to him for the season ahead.