Manchester United suffered a 2-0 away defeat to Chelsea in their latest Premier League game, stretching their winless run across competitions to nine matches. With just one win in their first nine league games, Michael Carrick’s men find themselves in need of reinforcements in the winter transfer window.
One of the major areas of concern at Manchester United is the lack of goals this season. The Red Devils have managed to find the back of the net on just three occasions in October, and are looking to strengthen their attack in January.
According to a TeamTalk report, Manchester United are linked with AS Monaco striker Folarin Balogun. The former Arsenal player has fallen behind the pecking order, with manager Filipe Luis prioritising new signing Matthis Abline and the youngster Paris Brunner in the attack this season. Balogun has scored one goal from five substitute appearances this season, and is all left out of Monaco’s continental squad.
Monaco are reportedly preparing to move on from Balogun, with the Ligue 1 outfit sounding out Manchester United and other interested clubs over a potential January transfer. As United continue their search for a new striker, the player’s representative Jorge Mendes has made the club aware of Balogun’s availability.
Manchester United have spent heavily on strengthening their attack in recent years, but are not getting the results. Benjamin Sesko, Marcus Rashford and Joshua Zirkzee have scored three goals across competitions between them this season, forcing Carrick to explore the new No.9 at Old Trafford.
The 20-time English champions are also linked with Premier League strikers Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Jean-Philippe Mateta over a possible January transfer, but Balogun’s availability could end United’s wait for the new forward.
Folarin Balogun scored 19 goals last season, but is struggling to find regular first-team football this campaign. The player’s contract expires in June 2028, so the Ligue 1 giants could consider selling him before a decline in his transfer value.
Meanwhile, Balogun, who joined Arsenal at eight and represented England at various youth levels, enjoyed a stunning FIFA World Cup campaign in America. His three goals led the hosts to the Round of 16, and significantly raised his stature in European football. He almost joined Everton for £40m in the summer transfer window, but the deal fell on deadline day due to complications over the medical test.
Premier League sides Leeds United, Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest have also been approached over the player’s availability. Balogun’s representatives are also reportedly assessing the market for potential interest from the Italian giants Juventus.
