​United States forward Folarin Balogun has signed with Klutch Sports following a breakout World Cup, with the agency founded by LeBron James’ longtime business partner Rich Paul announcing the move on Monday. Balogun is the first soccer player to sign directly with Klutch Sports, although the agency expanded into the sport in 2024 through its acquisition of European agency ROOF, which represents players including Malik Tillman, Gio Reyna, Kai Havertz and Mohammed Kudus.PARIS, FRANCE – AUGUST 08: American sports agent, Rich Paul looks on during a Men’s basketball semifinals match between Team United States and Team Serbia on day thirteen of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at Bercy Arena on August 08, 2024 in Paris, France. (Getty Images)AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThe AS Monaco striker emerged as one of the United States’ standout performers during the tournament, scoring three goals as the team reached the round of 16 before losing to Belgium. However, Balogun became a household name in world soccer due to the controversy surrounding his red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina, with his one-game ban suspended after United States president Donald Trump called FIFA president Gianni Infantino.The timing of Balogun’s signing reveals a deliberate strategy from Klutch Sports to establish itself in football through high-profile American players rather than competing directly for European talent. UTA acquired ROOF, which has about 150 clients across Europe’s “Big Five” leagues — English Premier League, Spanish La Liga, Italian Serie A, French Ligue 1, and German Bundesliga — and will continue to operate under its own brand name.ROOF co-founder Björn Bezemer was named head of Klutch Global Football, working with Rich Paul and UTA COO Andrew Thau to oversee the agency’s football operations. This structure allows Klutch to maintain its American sports expertise while leveraging ROOF’s established European network — positioning Balogun as the bridge between both markets.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementBeyond potential transfers, Klutch’s expertise in entertainment deals, docuseries, and brand partnerships across non-sports categories positions Balogun for a commercial profile that extends well beyond the pitch. The agency represents James, Anthony Davis, Jalen Hurts and A’ja Wilson, among elite athletes. This roster demonstrates Klutch’s ability to build athletes into cultural brands — a model largely absent from US soccer’s commercial landscape.The agency’s approach differs fundamentally from traditional football representation. While European agencies focus primarily on transfer negotiations and endorsements, Klutch has built its reputation on comprehensive brand development and strategic positioning across entertainment and business ventures.Balogun’s move signals a shift in how American soccer players approach commercial representation. Rather than following the traditional European agency model, top USMNT players can now access th