Manchester United have now shortlisted Quinten Timber as an alternative to Carlos Baleba
Manchester United finished 15th in the Premier League, lost to Tottenham in the Europa League final last season, and are not placed in any European competition for 2025/26. These were all deep dents in the club’s reputation. Ruben Amorim was appointed manager midway through last season, but the damage was already done.
This summer, the club have aggressively made moves in the transfer market. Big names like Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko have arrived, while youngster Diogo Leon has also been added to the squad. Meanwhile, Amorim continues to look for Brighton’s Carlos Baleba. United are also reportedly leading the race for him, but the £100m+ price tag is a big hurdle for United. Amorim’s target in the new Premier League season is to make the team competitive again by adding another powerful midfielder.
Moving towards Quinten Timber
United’s midfield are going through a period of transition at the moment. Christian Eriksen has left the club, Casemiro has slowed down with age, and Mason Mount has struggled with injuries. So Amorim’s system needs a new midfield engine. Feyenoord’s Quinten Timber has been a name that has gained a lot of attention in the last few weeks, as per Football Transfers. The Dutchman’s playing style is based on technical prowess, passing range, and energetic pressing. Although his recent knee injury is a concern, his situation with just one year left on his contract and a relatively low transfer fee makes this deal attractive to United.
Inside the transfer report
Manchester United have now shortlisted Quinten Timber as an alternative to Carlos Baleba.
Carlos Baleba and Quinten Timber are dynamic midfielders with distinct profiles
Football Transfers reports that United are keeping a close eye on Timber, and he is being considered as an alternative to Baleba. Feyenoord don’t want to lose their star, but could be forced to sell him given the contract situation and market realities. Timber is expected to be worth €25-30m, which is much less than Baleba. Amorim wants to fill this midfield gap before the Premier League season is at its full flow.
United have already spent around £200m so far on a new front three—Mbeumo, Cunha, and Sesko. A quality signing like Timber at a low price could also be good for the club’s finances. Baleba has potential, but Timber’s availability and price tag could push United to move quickly.
Our Opinion: Strength vs Potential
Carlos Baleba and Quinten Timber are both excellent midfielders, but their profiles are different. Baleba’s strengths are his physical attributes, defensive presence, and Yaya Touré-like running. He is a perfect fit for Amorim’s high-press and transition-heavy game. The Brighton midfielder’s weakness is overcommitting to tackles, which can put the team at risk. Timber, on the other hand, is a smart passer and tempo-control player. His style is to move the ball quickly and press at the right time. The knee injury is a risk, but Timber’s price tag and contract situation make him the most practical option at the moment.
If money weren’t an issue, Baleba could have been a great fit in Amorim’s system. However, the reality is that United have already spent big. A player like Timber, who fits into Amorim’s tactical setup and can be had at a low price, will give the club financial flexibility. United need to crack deals that increase both depth and quality of the squad. Moving on to Timber at this point seems like a smart and timely decision.