Manchester United have explored the conditions of signing Brighton & Hove Albion star Carlos Baleba in the winter transfer window.But Sky Sports report that a transfer is not expected to happen this m...
Manchester United have explored the conditions of signing Brighton & Hove Albion star Carlos Baleba in the winter transfer window.
But Sky Sports report that a transfer is not expected to happen this month, with Brighton keen to retain the midfielder’s services until at least the summer.
United were left impressed with Baleba’s performances last season, when he made six direct goal contributions in 40 appearances across all competitions.
The Red Devils wanted to bring the 22-year-old to Old Trafford in the summer, but a transfer did not materialise due to Brighton’s enormous valuation.
Baleba hasn’t had the same impact this campaign, but United are still interested in signing him.
Ruben Amorim’s side spent the bulk of their budget on reinforcing the attack. But their priorities now lie in midfield, with the club aiming to sign at least one top central midfielder in 2026.
Casemiro cannot be relied on to play every game at 33, while Manuel Ugarte has flopped since making the move to Manchester in the summer of 2024.
There are speculations over Kobbie Mainoo’s future at United, despite his desire to stay and fight for his place.
Bruno Fernandes could also leave the club next summer due to the attractive release clause in his contract.
Besides Baleba, United have three other Premier League midfielders on their shortlist too.
Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton and Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Joao Gomes have all been linked.
But a deal for any of them is expected to cost them heavily, and it remains to be seen whether they can afford to spend a lot.
Stats from Transfermarkt
Category: General Sports
