Arne Slot looks on during a Liverpool matchplaceholder image
Arne Slot looks on during a Liverpool match | AFP via Getty Images
Man United were hoping to sign a new holding midfielder during the January transfer window.
Midfield is the biggest area of concern for United, and it is understood that they will attempt to sign one of the three following Premier League stars in the summer: Elliot Anderson at Nottingham Forest, Adam Wharton at Crystal Palace, and Carlos Baleba at Brighton.
All three have generated significant interest from fellow Premier League clubs too, with Man City and Liverpool looking to strengthen in midfield too. It means that United’s choice could be narrowed down very quickly.
Liverpool ‘closing in on Wharton deal
However, recent reports suggest that Wharton is most likely to join rivals Liverpool, meaning United will have to look at the other two instead. According to Journalist Nicolo Schira on X, Liverpool are ‘getting closer’ to signing Wharton, as he reports that Wharton has already given his availability to the Reds over a potential five-year deal.
If this is the case, then Man United either need to make a move for Wharton now to try and challenge Liverpool, or they need to prioritise one of Anderson or Baleba instead for a summer move, which is what they were expected to do in the first place. But the question is, which one is more likely to come to Old Trafford?
Why Baleba is the most likely choice?
Brighton’s Baleba was on United’s radar last summer, as the Red Devils enquired about him, but were told to pay over £100m if they wanted to sign him, so they left it there. It is understood that United are still interested in Baleba, but because his form has depleted slightly this year, Brighton may not ask for such as a hefty fee in the summer.
Furthermore, Elliot Anderson is their other option at Nottingham Forest, but he is also wanted by rivals Man City. Whether Man United qualify for the Champions League or not, it could be difficult to tempt Anderson to join at Old Trafford rather than Man City, considering how well built Pep Guardiola’s side are to win trophies right now, with United being more of a project.
With that in mind, Baleba seems the most likely summer midfield signing for Man United, and that could end up being a really good addition. The 22-year-old Cameroon international has made 18 Premier League appearances for Brighton this season, and now that Casemiro has said he’s leaving, United will be keen to wrap this deal up.
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