Manchester United transfers: Carlos Baleba and Micky van de Ven among options as summer plans take shape | OneFootball

Manchester United are prioritising two midfield additions and a left-footed centre-back, with Carlos Baleba and Micky van de Ven among options as summer plans take shape.

According to NY Times, Champions League qualification would widen the budget. Sir Jim Ratcliffe visited Old Trafford for Leeds, then Carrington a week later. Carrick’s win at Stamford Bridge pushed United close.

United want two midfielders to complement Kobbie Mainoo, who is finalising a new deal. Baleba remains plausible after broad personal terms last summer, despite a testing Brighton season in which he was frequently substituted and completed few full games. He impressed in the 3-0 against Chelsea, stripping Robert Sanchez to set up Jack Hinshelwood.

United tracked Baleba for Cameroon at the Africa Cup of Nations over five games and liked his ball-winning, coverage and passing. They now feel a fee near £50m is sensible, after Brighton sought beyond £100m last year, though Tony Bloom’s position is unknown.

Recruiters want an imposing left-footed centre-back to share the load with Ayden Heaven and Leny Yoro, amid doubts over Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martinez after injuries, while Harry Maguire is 33. Van de Ven, 25, is contracted to 2029, has 7 goals in 40 games, and Liverpool admire him.

Sales remain key. Manuel Ugarte, a £50.5m 2024 signing from Paris Saint-Germain, is set to be available. Casemiro will depart despite a clause that could restore £350,000 per week. United plan four major additions, including an experienced striker and a left-back, with Tyrell Malacia departing.

Source: NY Times