Manchester United have completely bolstered their forward ranks this summer, spending just under £200million to add Matheus Cunha, Benjamin Sesko and Bryan Mbeumo to a new-look front three - but they may not be done there with an 'incredible' midfielder now in their sights.
The Red Devils only outscored Everton and the Premier League's three relegated sides last season, highlighting the need for further additions in their squad, and INEOS have done just that with some blockbuster recruits. However, other areas of the squad need to be targeted for improvement after last season's 15th-placed finish - and that could see them make a move for Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba.
Reports: Man Utd Have 'Opened Talks' For Carlos Baleba
carlos baleba
The Red Devils have been in the market for a central midfielder for some time, having been linked with a new man in the middle since Christian Eriksen's contract came to an end in the summer months. Javi Guerra, Lucien Agoume and more have all been linked, and a move for Baleba looked to be out of the question amid Brighton's high valuation of the Cameroonian star.
However, reports on Thursday claimed that United had initiated talks to sign the former Lille star, who has been named as 'incredible' for his exploits at the AMEX Stadium in what has been a fruitful spell on the south coast.
Brighton will demand over £100million for his services, which could put a United move in jeopardy - but if they can raise the capital for a move, there is no doubting that Baleba would be an ideal pickup for the club, having already strutted his stuff in the Premier League for the past two seasons.
With 27 appearances in the 2023/24 campaign and 34 in the Premier League last season - including three goals - he would be the ideal foil to sit alongside Bruno Fernandes in the middle of the park.
Baleba Would be the Perfect Midfield Partner for Bruno Fernandes
Bruno Fernandes applauding Manchester United fans
United's signings in the forward areas means that they are likely to play Fernandes in the centre of the field. He's undroppable; their best player, captain and most influential figure when it comes to going forward. But the Portuguese star hasn't had a consistent midfield partner for the entire of Ruben Amorim's spell as boss, alongside the fact that he's featured in the 'No. 10' roles - and that means that there is a space going.
Kobbie Mainoo doesn't seem to suit Amorim's physical, fast-paced style, and without proper tackling ability, he's more of a rotation option to have through the season. Fellow England international Mason Mount appears to be a backup for Fernandes due to his playing style, and although he presses well, he's not physically imposing enough to play alongside Fernandes in the 'enforcer' role that Baleba would offer.
Casemiro is declining and a long-term option is needed, which leaves Manuel Ugarte. He's not been at his best since he joined United and a horror pre-season showing against Everton may just have forced United's hand going forward.
Baleba would offer Premier League excellence, a youthful approach, as well as a long-term planning for the Red Devils - and playing alongside Fernandes, he could be just the ticket.
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