Ruben Amorim could find himself with a new £100m-plus midfielder by the end of the transfer window
Carlos Baleba
Man United have made contact for Carlos Baleba(Image: Getty Images)
Manchester United are interested in Brighton's Carlos Baleba, and are reportedly making contact to see if a deal can be done to reduce his significant asking price - and some fans in the Manchester Evening News comments section say that paying the price would be worth it, pointing to Premier League rivals as proof.
21 year-old Baleba is a highly-rated all-action defensive midfielder, who could inject fresh energy and aggression into United's midfield. His acquisition this summer would likely depend on sales, as Brighton don't want to settle for anything less than a transformative sum, reported to be over £100m - eclipsing United's current incoming transfer record of Paul Pogba's £89.3m move from Juventus in August 2016.
Foot Mercato journalist Nabil Djellit says that the two clubs are 'talking about a package of £112m behind the scenes'. Brighton chief executive Paul Barber has hinted that Baleba's future is uncertain, telling a fans forum: "Carlos is a fantastic talent. We hope he'll be here for years to come - but it's subject to the dynamics of the football world, which isn't always predictable."
Some fans say that this is a deal that will propel United back amongst the Premier League's leaders, if it can be done. Reader Ocansey says: "If the football decision makers feel we really need him, let them go ahead to sign him. After all, Arsenal signed Declan Rice for over 100 million pounds. Chelsea signed Caicedo for over 100 million, why can’t Man United follow suit?"
Commenter Garth123 writes: "United will have to pay around £100m, which seems a lot, but Moses Caicedo was sold to Chelsea for £115m. Getting the player now will possibly prevent a bidding war next year which will be further complicated with the World Cup.
"I don't see a problem with the price overall as it will be structured accordingly, possibly over 5 years. The only time fans tend to question a high price is when a player flops. This area, despite many failings by INEOS, is one area that has been improved and Jason Wilcox and Christopher Vivell have been effective so far in the identification of targets."
Bluecheetahs says: "£100m is a bit steep in my honest opinion, but I would not be surprised one bit if we pay it. Exciting time to be a red. Jim and Co need to understand though that this kind window should be the norm at United, if we want to get back on top, stellar signings, season in season out."
Other think it's a bridge too far to drop £100m-plus on Baleba. Drizztray77 says: "Do we really need him? When we should be going all out for Donnarumma? Surely our GK position is more important?"
Blacksocks writes: "I suggest Utd spend money on recruiting Brighton's scouts! They have had incredible success in finding talent that so-called big clubs then spend fortunes on."
SimplyRed60 says: "Baleba for 115m? No player is worth that, especially one who has had one season in PL. Adam Wharton a cheaper alternative?"
IlSacristano writes: "For £112 million I think Baleba should stay where he is. United have some fine talent in midfield including rising stars in the academy."
Have your say! Do you think United could get a deal done for Carlos Baleba in this transfer window? Comment below, and join in on the conversation.