Man Utd transfer target Carlos Baleba is very likely to “sign with a big English club” in the near future, according to Cedric Kante.
The former Mali international turned pundit was speaking to Africa Foot about the player’s future when he said that the midfielder’s departure from Brighton is all but “a done deal”.
“Manchester United have been interested in him for some time now, especially during the last summer transfer window. It doesn’t really surprise me, as the club has the resources to sign him and offer him a very high salary.”
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“In my opinion, yes, Baleba will sign with a big English club soon. It seems a done deal. Now, the question is when the Cameroonian will leave Brighton.”
“If a club comes in with an offer of over €100 million, his management will find it hard to refuse. And whoever signs him will be getting a good deal: he’s a reliable, consistent player they can count on.”
Baleba’s form is a concern
The Cameroon midfielder has not had the greatest start to the season. It is not known whether he has simply been distracted by speculation about his future of if he is struggling for some other reason.
Such a dip of form will raise questions over whether the Red Devils should spend in excess of £100m to bring him to Old Trafford.
Man Utd may consider pursuing other midfielders
Baleba is by no means the only option that the club’s recruitment department are looking at. In addition to the Brighton star, Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller, Wolves’ Joao Gomes and Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton are all high up the shortlist.
United will have to weigh up several factors when strengthening their midfield. Baleba’s attributes may perfectly fit what the club wants but they need to consider whether he will prove value for money based on the performances he can produce.
Read more about the Manchester United First Team Squad for 2025/26 here