Manchester United have already agreed personal terms with Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, according to The Athletic, and they should be making a move to sign him in January.
The Red Devils managed to transform their attacking options in the summer transfer window, but they failed to address other key areas of the pitch. On deadline day, United confirmed the signing of Lanne Sammens, who joined the Manchester club from Royal Antwerp to strengthen their options between the sticks for Ruben Amorim.
That was just United's fourth senior addition in the summer window, which might come as a surprise after such a disappointing 2024/2025 campaign. Amorim's side finished in the bottom half of the Premier League table, losing the Europa League final against Tottenham Hotspur.
Man Utd Agree Personal Terms to Sign Carlos Baleba
Carlos Baleba during a Brighton & Hove Albion pre-match warm-up
According to The Athletic, Manchester United agreed personal terms with Brighton midfielder Baleba ahead of a potential move after holding talks with the Seagulls during the summer transfer window. Manager Amorim pushed for Baleba internally and Sir Jim Ratcliffe also wanted him, but the could were unable to justify the price tag.
Baleba appears to be keen on making the move to Old Trafford after agreeing personal terms, and he could be the ideal addition for United in the middle of the park. Amorim needs to add technical quality mixed with defensive nous in midfield, and Baleba brings that in abundance.
After failing to bring in another midfield in the summer transfer window, then United have to make a move to try and convince Brighton to part ways with Baleba. GIVEMESPORT senior correspondent Fabrizio Romano has previously confirmed that Kobbie Mainoo has asked to leave on loan, and if he pushes again in January and United agree to part ways, then another midfield signing will become even more imperative.
Baleba, described as 'incredible' by Breaking The Lines, won't be a cheap deal to get over the line and the Seagulls might have to lower their asking price if United are to be able to prise him away, but at least asking the question again has to be at the top of their priority list in the January window. If United are unable to secure his signature, then they need to strengthen their midfield options regardless, even if that means finding a cheaper alternative over the next few months.
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