Manchester United have officially placed United States national team internationals Folarin Balogun and Alex Freeman on their transfer radar as incoming manager Mauricio Pochettino prepares to take charge at Old Trafford, according to reports from ESPN. Sources confirmed on November 13, 2026, that Mauricio Pochettino has reached an agreement to become the next permanent manager of the Premier League club, stepping in to replace the recently dismissed Michael Carrick. This leadership transition signals a significant shift in recruitment strategy, as the club looks to align its squad composition with the Argentine coach’s established tactical preferences and personal history with specific players.
The Shortlist: Balogun and Freeman
Monaco striker Folarin Balogun, 25, and Villarreal defender Alex Freeman, 22, have emerged as primary targets for potential moves when the winter transfer window officially opens in January. According to TEAMtalk, both players are viewed as ideal candidates to strengthen the squad due to their existing familiarity with Pochettino’s high-pressing system through their collective experiences with the United States men’s national team (USMNT). Manchester United has been monitoring the progress of Freeman for an extended period, and his recent standout performances under Pochettino’s guidance have reportedly accelerated the club’s interest in securing his services.
For Folarin Balogun, a move would represent a fresh start following a turbulent summer. The forward recently confirmed his intention to depart Monaco during the upcoming winter window, reflecting on the frustration of a collapsed transfer to Everton earlier this year. Speaking in comments published by The Athletic on November 12, 2026, Balogun noted the contrast between his ambitions and his current situation: “From almost being on the biggest of stages to going back to Monaco, which is fairly quiet, just living there and the way the country is designed — it’s been different.”
Contract Stalls and Wider Squad Moves
While the club’s recruitment department prepares for a busy January, internal stability remains a significant concern. Club captain Bruno Fernandes has reportedly rejected Manchester United’s latest contract extension proposal. Negotiations with the 32-year-old midfielder have stalled, with reports indicating dissatisfaction regarding the terms offered by the club. Discussions concerning salary and the duration of a potential new deal remain open-ended and are expected to continue in the coming weeks.
The situation regarding Fernandes is particularly pressing, as the midfielder is set to enter the final six months of his existing agreement in January. This status would allow him to engage in pre-contract discussions with clubs outside of the Premier League, potentially complicating the club’s long-term planning. As management at Old Trafford navigates these complex contract negotiations alongside the transition to a new managerial regime, the winter window is shaping up to be a defining period for the club’s future direction. Beyond the USMNT duo, United is also reportedly keeping tabs on other defensive options, including Chelsea right-back Malo Gusto, as the club seeks to address depth issues across the pitch.
Reporting source: espn.com.