Manchester United continue searching for midfield reinforcements despite already agreeing a deal to sign Ederson from Atalanta this summer.
Michael Carrick wants to rebuild the midfield after Casemiro’s departure, while uncertainty also surrounds Manuel Ugarte’s future at Old Trafford.
United completed a £35M agreement for Ederson earlier this window. However, the club still want another midfielder before the new season begins.
One player who remains firmly on their radar is Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba.
According to The Sun, Baleba recently spoke with Bruno Fernandes and Matheus Cunha about a possible move to Manchester United.
The report claims Baleba approached Cunha after Brighton’s 3-0 defeat against United on the final day of last season.
The 22-year-old reportedly discussed life at Old Trafford with both United players as speculation around his future continues. United already explored a move for Baleba last summer.
However, Brighton demanded a fee worth more than £100M, which forced United to step away from negotiations.
Reports also suggest the midfielder remains keen on joining Manchester United despite growing interest from several clubs across Europe.
However, Brighton continue holding a firm position over their valuation. The Seagulls want between £100M and £115M for Baleba, similar to the fee Chelsea paid for Moises Caicedo in 2023.
United value the midfielder significantly lower and reportedly prefer a figure closer to £50M-£70M. That gap currently remains the biggest obstacle preventing a breakthrough.
Baleba’s close relationship with former Lille teammate Leny Yoro could also help United if talks progress later this summer.
However, United must still balance spending carefully after major investment on players like Matheus Cunha, Benjamin Sesko and Ederson.
For now, Baleba remains a high-priority target, but Brighton’s demands continue making any immediate agreement extremely difficult.
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