Manchester United are reportedly keen to sign a midfielder in 2026 after failing to strengthen the position during the summer transfer window.
Despite high-profile deals for Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers, Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford and Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig, the Red Devils were unable to add to their midfield options.
With Casemiro not impressing since his strong debut season, United managers have sought alternative solutions in central midfield.
Ruben Amorim has chosen different personnel in the centre of the park, with talisman Bruno Fernandes often playing deeper intermittently alongside Manuel Ugarte.
Other options include Kobbie Mainoo, who is not favoured by Amorim and was linked with a move away from Old Trafford, and Mason Mount, who is not deemed suitable for a midfield pairing in the Portuguese manager’s approach.
United’s persistent midfield issues led them to consider reinforcements during the summer, and recent reports suggest they could revisit transfer plans in 2026.
Manchester United ‘prepare’ Baleba plan for historic 2026 move
Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba in September 2024.
According to Fichajes, the Manchester giants remain eager to sign Carlos Baleba from Brighton & Hove Albion in 2026 after missing out this summer.
The 21-year-old Cameroonian, who joined Brighton for €27m (£23.4m) in late August 2023, has since made 64 appearances for the Seagulls in the Premier League.
The young midfielder was the focus of strong interest from United throughout most of the recent transfer window, but the move did not happen.
However, the latest report suggests that the Red Devils may return in 2026 with a deal potentially worth €150m (£130m), which would surpass Alexander Isak's £125m transfer to Liverpool.
What could Baleba add to Manchester United’s midfield?
Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba on January 25, 2025
Possibly having Baleba in midfield could be a game-changer for the Red Devils, due to the Cameroonian's physical attributes, which are evident in his powerful and strong build, making him difficult to dispossess.
The midfielder’s high work rate showcases his impressive stamina, helping him to contribute significantly to both the attacking and defensive phases of the game, depending on the situation.
Furthermore, the Brighton star displays tactical intelligence, with his exceptional game-reading ability enabling him to make key interceptions and tackles that break up opposition play.
The above metrics are the young midfielder’s key strengths, and this is highlighted by Baleba ranking in the 90th percentile for interceptions, the 85th percentile for blocks and the 75th percentile for tackles, all according to Fbref.
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