Manchester United still hope to sign Carlos Balebaplaceholder image
Manchester United still hope to sign Carlos Baleba | Getty Images
Man United are keen to sign Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba this summer, but he’s going to be expensive.
Manchester United’s transfer business has been impressive this summer, and there is a lot of optimism heading into their first game of the season against rivals Arsenal on Sunday afternoon.
However, there is still a lot of holes to fill this summer, with the likes of the goalkeeper spot, the holding midfield role, and depth across the board still needing improvement. Brighton star Carlos Baleba has emerged as their first choice target in midfield.
However, Brighton have priced Baleba at over £100m, and even though the 21-year-old wants to join United, the Red Devils won’t be able to afford him, unless a cheaper deal can be done, or they can make significant player sales moving forward.
Man United still keen on Hjulmand as Baleba alternative
Seeing as though it looks like a deal for Baleba is going to be very difficult for United to complete, the Red Devils may have to go after an alternative midfield target for that holding role in Amorim’s side.
The Red Devils have previously been linked to signing Sporting CP midfielder Morten Hjulmand, who played under Amorim, and it seems that he remains a player of interest for United. According to a report by the Sun, United are lining up a £50m bid for Hjulmand, if they miss out on Baleba, which is looking more and more likely.
The reports say Hjulmand has a release clause set at £68m, but with certain add-ons, Sporting could be willing to sell him for under £60m. The Danish midfielder was well-regarded by Amorim at Sporting. He signed him and made him captain for the Portuguese side.
Quoted by TribalFootball, Amorim described Hjulmand as a “fantastic player” during his time at Sporting. The 26-year-old plays as a number six, and he is more of a physical player compared to Baleba. He’s tall, strong, and could add something different to what United currently have in their midfield.
How could Man United fund a deal for Baleba?
Hjulmand is United’s reliable alternative, but it seems that Baleba remains the top target this summer. However, because of the finances of a deal, United have to make significant sales before they can fund a deal to sign the Cameroon international midfielder.
Furthermore, Sancho could generate around £20m to £25m, with reported interest from Roma, Besiktas and Juventus. Adding onto that £60m or so, Garnacho could generate up to £50m in revenue, with reports saying that Chelsea are advancing in talks to sign the Argentine. These three sales could generate over £100m, which would in itself fund a deal for Baleba, and allow United to land their top midfield target.
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