Man Utd interested in signing Monaco’s Folarin Balogun

Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing AS Monaco forward Folarin Balogun, as per TEAMtalk.

After parting ways with Ruben Amorim, the Red Devils decided to appoint Michael Carrick as the interim manager last January. The Englishman enjoyed a successful second half of last term, helping United qualify for the Champions League by finishing third in the Premier League.

As a result, Carrick was rewarded with the permanent managerial role at Old Trafford. However, Man Utd have endured a dire start this season, languishing in the relegation zone with eight points from 10 matches.

United are the only club to have won only one league game thus far this term. On the other hand, they have already been knocked out of the Carabao Cup.

Man Utd are currently out of the top eight of the Champions League table with six points from four matches. So, the club’s hierarchy have opted to part ways with him.

As a replacement for Carrick, United are said to be close to appointing former Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino. The Argentine is expected to lead the Red Devils against Liverpool after the international break.

Now, TEAMtalk state that Man Utd are considering signing a new striker next year and have expressed their interest in Balogun. The player is even tempted to move to Old Trafford to continue working with the USA boss.

Balogun to Man Utd

Balogun is keen to return to the Premier League and his representatives have already made contact with the Old Trafford club over a potential January transfer.

The report state that Monaco are open to cashing in on Balogun, valued at around £42m by Transfermarkt, in January, although his existing deal is set to run until 2028.

Apart from Balogun, Man Utd have also been keeping a close eye on Villarreal and USA international star Alex Freeman, who is highly regarded by Pochettino.

Balogun is a striker by trait but is also comfortable on the flanks. He is quick, strong, can finish off his chances and works hard without possession. The 25-year-old is currently at the prime stage of his career and knows about the Premier League’s physicality, having previously played for Arsenal.

So, Balogun would be a shrewd acquisition for Man Utd should they eventually opt to purchase him.