HIGH POINT, NC (March 20, 2026) -- Carolina Core FC has announced the signing of forward Khalid Balogun for the 2026 season.
A native of Washington, D.C., Balogun joins the Core following recent stints with USL Championship sides Lexington SC & Miami FC. Standing at 6-4, the physically imposing striker brings a wealth of professional experience across multiple tiers of American soccer.
Balogun first made his mark in the professional ranks with the Maryland Bobcats from 2021 to 2022, where he logged over 20 appearances before moving to Lexington SC. During his tenure in Kentucky, Balogun contributed four goals and five assists in his debut season while also scoring the first non-penalty goal in Lexington SC history.
“We are excited to add Khalid to our attacking group and bring another veteran presence to the team,” said Head Coach Donovan Ricketts. “He's a constant threat in the box, but it’s his professional experience and leadership that will truly benefit our younger players. Khalid knows how to find the back of the net at this level, and we expect him to be a major factor in our offensive production this year.”
Prior to his professional career, Balogun was a standout performer at St. Mary’s College of Maryland, where he earned two United Soccer Coaches All-American honors. During his collegiate career, he tallied an impressive 37 goals and 19 assists in 66 appearances, earning Capital Athletic Conference (CAC) Rookie of the Year and Offensive Player of the Year awards.
TRANSACTION DETAILS
Khalid Balogun
Position: Striker
Nationality: USA / Nigeria
Place Of Birth: Washington, D.C.
Playing History: Maryland Bobcats (2021 – 2022) / Lexington SC (2023 – 2024) / Miami FC (2025)
Collegiate: St Mary’s Seahawks (2016 – 2019)
Height: 6- 4
Weight: 220
