Manchester United have taken a step forward in their pursuit of a new midfielder ahead of the summer window.
The club continue to assess options in the middle of the park. That area remains a priority because of Casemiro’s departure at the end of this season.
Also, Manuel Ugarte could leave next summer. So, Manchester United are assessing several options in midfield, including the likes of Elliot Anderson, Alex Scott, and Adam Wharton.
But Carlos Baleba has stayed firmly on their radar. United pushed hard to sign the Brighton midfielder last summer. However, the deal collapsed due to the asking price.
Brighton demanded more than £100 million at the time. INEOS had already committed significant funds to sign Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Senne Lammens.
That left little room to complete another major transfer. But Baleba remained keen on joining Manchester United.
However, he stayed at Brighton and endured a difficult season after missing out on the switch. Now the situation has changed.
According to reports, Brighton have opened the door to a potential sale this summer. That development has given Manchester United fresh hope.
Nicolo Schira also reported that United remain interested and could prepare a new offer, while Chelsea continue to monitor the situation.
Now, reports suggested Baleba’s price could drop to around £50 million. But that claim does not reflect the reality. Any deal will need to exceed £70 million.
Also, Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that the agreement on personal terms between Baleba and Manchester United from last summer still stands.
But the deal still depends on several factors. The club must finalise their managerial situation, confirm their budget and negotiate with Brighton.
Carlos #Baleba is still a #ManchesterUnited’s target as a midfielder. #MUFC had already agreed personal terms with the player last summer, but #Brighton turned down the bid. #BHAFC have now opened the door to the sale and #mutd are preparing an offer. #Chelsea are also interested https://t.co/ofty6dF4wX
— Nicolò Schira (@NicoSchira) April 26, 2026
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