Manchester United have added Folarin Balogun and Alex Freeman to their list of January transfer targets. According to TEAMtalk, citing journalist Graham Bailey, the appointment of Mauricio Pochettino as head coach could make negotiations over both players easier.
Both players previously worked with the Argentine coach in the United States national team. His familiarity with the players and their abilities could influence the new manager's transfer decisions.
Balogun the most advanced option
Folarin Balogun is considered the most concrete option at present. The 25-year-old striker plays for Monaco, but his position at the French club has become more difficult in recent times.
The forward has yet to start a Ligue 1 match this season and has fallen behind younger players in the pecking order, including Paris Brunner.
According to the source, Balogun's representatives have already told Manchester United that Pochettino's appointment makes a potential move to Old Trafford more attractive. The striker is interested in returning to the Premier League and working with the Argentine again.
Monaco are willing to discuss the player's departure in January. The French club prefer a permanent transfer, but have not ruled out a loan under certain conditions.
Balogun came close to joining Everton in the summer, but the deal did not materialise. His representatives also contacted other English clubs — Newcastle, Leeds and Nottingham Forest. Italian club Juventus have also been linked with an interest in the striker.
Freeman being monitored
The second candidate is Alex Freeman, a 21-year-old American right-back who plays for Villarreal.
Manchester United are closely monitoring the player's development. Pochettino rates the defender highly and gave him opportunities with the United States national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
However, the situation with Freeman is at an earlier stage. Unlike the contacts over Balogun, interest in the defender is limited to scouting. Formal negotiations between the clubs have not been confirmed.
Pochettino begins work at Manchester United
Mauricio Pochettino's appointment as Manchester United's new head coach was officially announced on 13 November. The Argentine will begin work at the club on 18 November.
His first match in charge is scheduled for 22 November against Liverpool.
Pochettino will have significant influence over the club's sporting decisions. His previous experience with Balogun and Freeman could therefore play an important role in shaping plans for the January transfer window.
