Manchester United have made midfield reinforcements a major priority during the summer transfer window.
Michael Carrick has already strengthened that area with Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans.
United paid Chelsea £50 million for Santos before activating Tielemans’ £35 million Aston Villa release clause.
Those additions followed several setbacks during United’s search for midfielders. They missed out on Elliot Anderson and Mateus Fernandes, while Atalanta midfielder Ederson failed a medical.
United also discovered that Aurelien Tchouameni and Alex Scott would not be available this summer. Their attention eventually returned to a familiar target at Brighton.
Carlos Baleba was already on United’s radar last summer, when they held talks over a possible move.
Personal terms with the Cameroon international remain in place from those discussions. United have now stepped up their pursuit as they attempt to complete another major midfield signing.
According to TEAMtalk, Brighton would accept a £70 million package for Baleba, providing United with a clear route towards an agreement.
The Red Devils recently submitted a £65 million offer, leaving the two clubs relatively close in their valuations. Discussions continue over the overall structure and potential add-ons.
Negotiations have continued, although Manchester United and Brighton have yet to reach a club-to-club agreement.
United nevertheless remain close to Baleba as talks continue between the two Premier League clubs.
The 22-year-old could become Carrick’s third midfield addition of the summer following Santos and Tielemans.
Baleba’s existing agreement on personal terms also removes another potential obstacle if United can settle the transfer package with Brighton.
The final valuation now gives United a clear figure to reach as they push to complete the deal.
Carrick’s side begin their Premier League campaign away against Hull City on Saturday. United could still add another important piece to their rebuilt midfield before the transfer window closes.
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