Man Utd Transfer News Today: Pochettino gives green light to January reunion with Chelsea star
FootballTransfers runs through the latest Man Utd transfer news, rumours and gossip, including updates on Mauricio Pochettino, Folarin Balogun and Malo Gusto.
Carrick was handed the permanent job in June after being appointed interim boss in January to huge success, however United won just three of their 15 games under him in all competitions this season.
"After a disappointing start to the season, the club has come to the extremely difficult conclusion that a change is necessary in order to achieve our ambitions," the club wrote in an official statement.
"Michael is, and always will be, a Manchester United legend. Just as he did as a player, he has conducted himself with the highest standards of dedication and professionalism throughout his time back with the club. His leadership and achievements last season will always be fondly remembered.
"The club intends to appoint a permanent successor as quickly as possible."
“Man Utd have taken three, almost four days to work on everything: an internal review, discussions with the owner, talks with Mauricio Pochettino and talks with the American Federation,” Romano said.
“When will it happen? There is an expectation internally at the US men's national team that Pochettino can complete this international break in charge of the USA and then travel to England to take over at Manchester United.
“Let's see if this will be the final verdict, but the expectation as of tonight is that Pochettino will be in charge of the next two games with the USA before joining Man Utd.
“Pochettino is therefore ready to help with the next few games before signing with United. This is also out of respect for the USMNT because, obviously, finding a solution now, with the games coming up over the next few days, would make it difficult to find another alternative.
“The agreement between Pochettino, his lawyers and Manchester United is done. It has been verbally agreed, closed and completed. The contract, the staff and everything else are being finalised. Pochettino said yes in the afternoon, the contract was ready that evening, and now they are working on the formal steps.”
Gusto worked with Pochettino during his debut season at Stamford Bridge in 2023-24 and he was one of Chelsea’s standout performers across the campaign, however, his form has dipped since and he has fallen down the pecking order under new manager Xabi Alonso.
The 23-year-old has only started three of Chelsea’s 10 Premier League matches so far this term and it was widely reported that the Blues were willing to sell Gusto if their €90 million asking price was met over the summer
While the Frenchman was initially keen to fight for his place at Stamford Bridge, he is now open to leaving the club in January and this has been confirmed by BBC Sport, who report that Gusto is assessing his options ahead of the winter window.
TEAMtalk claim that Pochettino’s appointment has made the prospect of a move ‘somewhat more appealing’ for Balogun, with the 25-year-old said to be ‘keen’ to explore a move.
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.
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.
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.
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