Manchester United are exploring a big summer move for Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba.
It was revealed last week that United had made contact with the Seagulls, via intermediaries, for the 21-year-old.
The Athletic have now revealed that a number of United players have been in contact with Baleba about a transfer to Old Trafford, explaining the current landscape and ambitions.
Baleba is currently one of the most promising midfielders in the Premier League.
Manager Ruben Amorim is hunting for an athletic holding midfielder who can snuff out danger while also driving the team forward with purpose.
The Cameroon international is a press-resistant midfielder who loves to stick his foot in and do the defensive work.
He has also impressed with his physical ability and tenacity in carrying the ball forward from deep.
Being left-footed gives him a rare weapon in the current market, opening up new passing lanes and angles for United’s attack.
Andre Onana played a role in bringing Bryan Mbeumo to Old Trafford and the duo now could combine to convince their fellow countryman to join the Red Devils.
Manuel Ugarte is a defensive rock but still needs to polish his progressive passing game.
Casemiro was arguably the best number six but, at 33, he may not have the legs to run the midfield in an intense Premier League season.
Kobbie Mainoo is another alternative but Amorim sees him more in a creative role rather than as a holding midfielder.
Baleba could be the final piece of the jigsaw for United in midfield and could potentially be their season-defining signing.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com