Man Utd offered Folarin Balogun as January striker search intensifies

Manchester United have been approached over a possible January move for Folarin Balogun, according to TeamTalk. The Monaco forward is available ahead of the winter window and is one of several options being explored by United, who are looking to strengthen their attacking options.

  • Player: Folarin Balogun, 25, forward, Monaco
  • Availability: Available ahead of the January transfer window
  • United's need: Strengthen attacking options in the winter window
  • Other options: Jean-Philippe Mateta remains on United's radar
  • Competition: Everton, Leeds United, Newcastle United, Nottingham Forest and Juventus also approached
  • Stage: Early talks; no deal advanced

Deal details

Balogun's agents, led by Jorge Mendes, are already working on potential options for the January window, and United are among the clubs contacted. The player's availability has been put to Old Trafford as the club assesses the market. There is no suggestion a deal is advanced or that Balogun is United's first choice.

Monaco are open to a solution. Balogun has been left out of Monaco's European squad altogether and has made only four substitute appearances in Ligue 1 this season. The 25-year-old's proposed summer departure from Monaco broke down, and his minutes have since dried up. He came close to joining Everton before pulling out of the move after becoming unhappy with questions raised during his medical.

United's shortlist also includes Jean-Philippe Mateta, who remains on the club's radar. Everton have been contacted again, while Leeds United, Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest have also been made aware of Balogun's situation. Juventus have reportedly been approached as well. Monaco's willingness to allow the striker to leave in January opens the door for clubs seeking a market opportunity.

Why Balogun fits United's short-term needs

Folarin Balogun offers pace, penalty-box instinct and a point to prove after a frustrating spell at Monaco. United need depth and goals in the second half of the season, and a loan or a deal weighted in the club's favour would make more sense than a big commitment. The risk is obvious: four substitute appearances and no European squad role is a thin platform from which to make a major call.

United's recruitment staff are assessing who can add a different profile up front. Jean-Philippe Mateta remains a known alternative, but Balogun's availability and motivation could make him a sensible market opportunity. The club must decide whether they are buying into a temporary dip or a deeper issue, and background checks will be crucial.

Talking points

  • Is Balogun worth the risk after just four substitute appearances and no European football this season?
  • Should United prioritise a loan deal for Balogun or push for Mateta as a more proven option?
  • Can United beat Everton, Leeds, Newcastle, Forest and Juventus to a player available on the market?
  • Would Balogun's Premier League pedigree and international experience make him a smart January signing?

What happens next

United will continue to assess the market and weigh up a move for Balogun, with the January window approaching. The club must decide whether to pursue a loan or a structured deal, while competition from Everton, Leeds, Newcastle, Forest and Juventus could force a quick decision. Balogun's representatives are actively working on options.

Frequently asked questions

Have Man Utd been offered Folarin Balogun?

Yes, according to TeamTalk, United are among the clubs approached over Balogun's availability as they assess the January market.

Is Folarin Balogun available in January?

Yes, TeamTalk reports that Balogun is available ahead of the January transfer window, with Monaco open to a solution.

Which other clubs are interested in Folarin Balogun?

Everton, Leeds United, Newcastle United, Nottingham Forest and Juventus have also been made aware or approached over Balogun's situation.

Filed under: Transfer News | LA Premier League Home