Manchester United are continuing their midfield rebuild ahead of the new season. However, the club may now be forced to abandon one of their longest-running transfer pursuits.
The Red Devils have already secured an agreement with Atalanta for Brazil midfielder Ederson. The move could cost around £38M, while the Brazilian has also reportedly agreed a five-year contract at Old Trafford.
Despite that breakthrough, United could still sign at least two more midfielders during the current transfer window. Casemiro already left the club at the end of his contract, while Manuel Ugarte’s future under Michael Carrick is uncertain.
Therefore, recruitment in central midfield remains one of the biggest priorities inside the club. However, one player who appeared firmly on United’s radar may now stay with his current club.
According to The Guardian, Brighton expect Carlos Baleba to remain at the Amex Stadium this summer despite Manchester United’s long-standing interest. The Cameroon international has attracted admiration from United for some time.
Reports claim Baleba even agreed personal terms over a move to Old Trafford last summer, and that agreement reportedly still remains valid ahead of the current window.
However, the biggest obstacle continues to be Brighton’s valuation. The south coast club reportedly want around £80M for the midfielder.
But Manchester United value him closer to £50M. That gap is now understood to be a major problem during discussions.
Manchester United are also trying to build a dominant midfield structure under Carrick. Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes remain important pieces inside the squad.
Therefore, Baleba could have been an ideal addition capable of complementing both players.
However, Manchester United currently appear reluctant to repeat that approach for Baleba despite their long-term admiration for the Brighton midfielder.
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