Carlos Baleba: United exploring blockbuster January deal | OneFootball

Manchester United’s need to reinforce in the middle of the park could not be more obvious.

Casemiro has struggled to complete 90 minutes in most games, while his waning influence on the pitch has been clearly seen in recent weeks.

Kobbie Mainoo remains injured, while his future remains up in the air despite his desire to stay and fight for his place.

Bruno Fernandes’ injury has come at the worst possible time, and even he could be moved on given his attractive release clause.

United desperately need midfield reinforcements

Manuel Ugarte has shown glimpses of promise in recent weeks, but INEOS do not think he has delivered since arriving, which explains the recent links with a switch to Galatasaray.

Ruben Amorim ideally wanted INEOS to sign a midfielder in the summer, with Brighton and Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba identified as the perfect fit.

However, Brighton’s valuation proved beyond reach, and a pursuit was subsequently called off. And since then, the Cameroonian’s form has dropped off a cliff, as hinted at by his club manager.

That saw Elliot Anderson of Nottingham Forest, and Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton overtake him in the pecking order of transfer targets.

Carlos Baleba links reappear

However, United seem to have never wavered in their faith, and as per Sky Sports, they have “explored the conditions of signing Brighton’s Carlos Baleba in January.”

Brighton’s stance is clear — they do not want to sell the 21-year-old anytime soon, with his current deal valid until 2028.

It would most likely take a club record fee to land him, either this month or in the summer. It remains to be seen if INEOS will greenlight such an approach.

The report further added that United want to add not one, but two midfielders, with Wolves’ Joao Gomes also on their radar.

Feature image Mike Hewitt via Getty Images

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