Mauricio Pochettino has not yet been announced as Manchester United manager, but the groundwork for his squad rebuild has reportedly already begun. According to TEAMtalk, the Argentine is lining up two familiar faces from his time in charge of the United States national team.
Pochettino is expected to be given funds to shape the squad in his own image, though any changes will have to wait until the January transfer window. The report claims that defender Alex Freeman and striker Folarin Balogun are both of interest after Pochettino worked closely with the pair over the past two years.
Familiar Faces Targeted
Pochettino handed Villarreal defender Freeman his international debut, while Arsenal academy graduate Balogun has become a leading figure for the USMNT under his tutelage. United's reported interest in Freeman predates the talks to appoint Pochettino as the replacement for Michael Carrick, who was sacked on Thursday morning.
Freeman joined La Liga side Villarreal in January 2026, helping the club qualify for the Champions League. The former Orlando City player is capable of operating on either flank as a full-back or wing-back and has some experience in central defence.
Striker Options
Balogun almost made a deadline day switch to United's Premier League rivals Everton earlier this year, only to pull out of the deal at the last minute. His current club, Monaco, are said to be facing financial struggles, which could allow Pochettino and United to strengthen their attack at a reduced cost.
Balogun made just two Premier League appearances for Arsenal before permanently joining Monaco in 2023. The Ligue 1 side were impressed by his return of 21 goals in 37 games for Stade Reims during the previous campaign, but the American has yet to hit the same heights at his current club.
