Manchester United are already reportedly ‘in talks’ for their first two signings under Mauricio Pochettino, with the new manager giving the green light for a double deal for some familiar faces.

Pochettino is set to be appointed as United’s replacement for Michael Carrick, who the club confirmed would leave his post as head coach on Thursday after a disastrous start to the season.

United are understood to have been in touch with the United States soccer federation to finalise a deal for Pochettino, with personal terms already agreed for the USMNT boss and his staff.

With the new manager in place, United are now expected to press forward with January transfer plans to support Pochettino and TEAMtalk report that two of his United States stars could follow their manager to Old Trafford.

United have been offered the chance to sign Folarin Balogun and it is claimed that the Pochettino’s appointment has made the prospect of a move ‘somewhat more appealing’, with the Monaco striker said to be ‘keen’ to explore a move.

Villarreal full-back Alex Freeman is another player United have kept tabs on and, with Pochettino rating the American international highly, it is believed that a move could be explored for the 22-year-old in January.

Pochettino to make call over Balogun and Freeman as first Man Utd signings

Pochettino will allegedly have ‘major input’ into United’s recruitment and United’s desire to add both a forward and a left-back to their ranks in January could see moves for Balogun and Freeman accelerate.

Balogun enjoyed a strong 2026 World Cup under Pochettino, scoring three times, but the 25-year-old has played just 152 minutes of league action for Monaco this season, having seen a €50 million move to Everton collapse on deadline day during the summer.

Monaco are said to be open to a loan move for Balogun, which would entice United, and a reunion with Pochettino is described as a ‘major factor’ in the Premier League side winning the race for his signature.

Freeman, meanwhile, has been a regular feature for Villareal since joining the Spanish side in January and, although he is largely seen as a right-back, the youngster has often proven his versatility across the backline, as well as providing a goal threat further forward.

Having made his debut under Pochettino in 2025, Freeman has 26 caps for the US national team and the new United boss will be asked for his input over both deals once his appointment is formalised in the coming days.