Manchester United could still look to complete a deal for one of the Premier League's breakthrough stars in Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, journalist Fabrizio Romano has exclusively told GIVEMESPORT's 'Market Madness' podcast - with the Red Devils having conversations with the Cameroonian's agent to understand just how much a deal could cost the club going forward, with a fee of around £120million being bandied about.
United's interest in Baleba was notified last week in a shock bombshell piece of transfer news, despite agreeing to a deal to sign Benjamin Sesko just a day later - and having already spent almost £200million on a new front three that includes the likes of Wolverhampton Wanderers hero Matheus Cunha, Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo and the Slovenian talisman, it's clear the Red Devils will look to spend again to get their team up to scratch.
Romano: Man Utd 'Want to Try' for Baleba, He's Keen on £120m Move
carlos baleba
Baleba has been touted as a target since, with the Brighton midfielder having impressed for the Seagulls over the past two seasons after his move from Lille. And, given manager Ruben Amorim has so far failed to find the ideal engine room partner for club captain Bruno Fernandes, Baleba could be the perfect foil.
And, as a result, Romano has stated that United will try to bring him in, with the enforcer being keen on a move. Romano said:
"It's a good question. They would also like to know that [the actual cost] because with Brighton, it's never easy to negotiate, and they are very good at negotiations.
"So in this context, they are having with the agents of the player, they are waiting to understand how much it will cost, because the rumour in the industry is something around £120million.
"But at the moment, Manchester United are still waiting to understand the final official cost for Baleba - to understand when and how to try to make a bid, and to try to approach Brighton for Baleba.
"For sure, the player is keen on the move, and the player is not closing doors to Manchester United even without European football. Baleba is keen on joining Manchester United, and now it will depend on the two clubs. My understanding is that Manchester United want to try."
Manuel Ugarte has not impressed much since joining the Old Trafford outfit, whilst Kobbie Mainoo and Mason Mount haven't shown enough to prove that they will be long-term features in Amorim's midfield.
With Baleba only being 21 years of age, that midfield spot could have his name on it and United could make an offer to make his arrival a formality.
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