Manchester United are growing increasingly confident of signing Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba this summer, according to reports.
The Old Trafford side are planning on adding a Premier League-proven midfielder to their ranks after the season and have identified Baleba as a top target.
United are unlikely to make any new signings in January under new interim head coach Michael Carrick, who will oversee 17 games in charge before a new permanent appointment is likely to be made.
The Red Devils explored a move for Baleba last summer but were put off by Brighton’s demands, worth around £115m.
Man Utd Confident of Carlos Baleba Deal
Carlos Baleba during a Brighton & Hove Albion pre-match warm-up
According to journalist Katherine Walsh, United are becoming more optimistic about a deal for Baleba after the season, following a drop in his stock over the last few months.
However, there is anticipation Brighton could still demand a significant fee for the midfielder that may potentially surpass United’s record signing Paul Pogba, who was bought from Juventus for £89m in 2016.
If they are unable to pry Baleba away from Brighton, the Old Trafford side are believed to have three other Premier League midfielders on their shortlist.
United are claimed to be interested in Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton and Bournemouth’s Alex Scott.
The Red Devils could end up signing more than one midfielder after the season, as uncertainty remains over the futures of Casemiro and captain Bruno Fernandes.
While the Brazilian’s contract is expiring at the end of the campaign, Fernandes is expected to reassess his future after the 2026 World Cup.
Quiet January Transfer Window Anticipated
Michael Carrick
Manchester United remain unlikely to make any major transfer moves in January following Carrick’s appointment as interim head coach.
The Red Devils’ chiefs spent over £200m during the summer transfer window on the arrivals of Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, Benjamin Sesko and Senne Lammens.
New signings appear more likely after the season, when United will have a new permanent manager in place and potentially European football booked for 2026/27.
Carrick is preparing for his first game back in charge of the Old Trafford side, a derby against Manchester City on Saturday.
Tyrell Malacia on the Move?
Tyrell Malacia
According to reports, Tyrell Malacia could leave Manchester United this month after failing to make an appearance for the club this season.
The Dutchman is reportedly expected to hold face-to-face talks with Carrick over his future, with just five months remaining on his contract at Old Trafford.
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