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Manchester United has been offered the chance to sign Folarin Balogun in January, according to Graeme Bailey of TEAMtalk. The Monaco striker’s representatives have contacted the club as they explore a winter move.
His agents, led by Jorge Mendes, are assessing possible destinations, with Monaco reportedly willing to let the 25-year-old leave. Balogun has struggled for playing time since his proposed summer transfer to Everton collapsed.
TEAMtalk reports that the US international has made just four substitute appearances in Ligue 1 this season and was omitted from Monaco’s European squad. Paris Brunner has moved ahead of him in the attack.
That follows a season in which Balogun scored 19 goals in all competitions. He traveled to England for a medical with Everton on deadline day, but returned to Monaco after the transfer fell through.
Monaco chief Thiago Scuro later explained that Everton had raised concerns during the medical before the clubs resumed their agreement. According to Scuro, Balogun then chose against signing because he felt he had been treated unfairly during the process.
United is assessing its January recruitment needs after injuries exposed shortages in several positions. Benjamin Sesko’s absence has increased the need for another center-forward, while Rasmus Hojlund’s summer departure for Napoli reduced the options available to Michael Carrick.
Jean-Philippe Mateta remains another candidate for the position, with United considering a striker who already has Premier League experience.
His representatives have also approached Juventus, according to Bailey. The Italian club was already considering Balogun alongside Alexander Sorloth last month, with Luciano Spalletti looking for an additional striker.