Manchester United have suffered another big blow in their pursuit of an extremely talented midfielder.
According to renowned journalist David Ornstein, Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba has suffered an ankle ligament injury and is a doubt for the start of the 2026-27 campaign.
The 22-year-old is now expected to spend a period on the sidelines, but Brighton hope he will not be out for long.
The Red Devils held a strong interest in the Cameroon international and reportedly agreed personal terms with him last summer.
However, their approach was swiftly rejected by the Seagulls.
Many believed Baleba could become the first marquee signing of the Michael Carrick era before United instead strengthened midfield with the arrivals of Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans.
Even now, INEOS have not completely ruled out adding another midfielder before the transfer window closes.
Baleba still looks like the type of player capable of transforming United’s midfield for years to come.
Santos has impressed throughout pre-season with his outstanding reading of the game and composure in the number six role.
Tielemans adds experience to the young United midfield. He could also provide incisive forward passes from the number eight position.
United still lack a midfielder capable of relentlessly covering ground, winning duels and physically dominating games in the way Baleba has done for Brighton.
INEOS should now quickly turn their attention to other midfielders on the market because they need to build quality depth for the demanding 2026-27 season ahead.
Another quality midfielder is required alongside Santos, Tielemans and Kobbie Mainoo to truly complete an overhaul.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
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