Manchester United are reportedly closing in on a deal for Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba after stepping up their pursuit of the Cameroon international.
The Red Devils have made strengthening Michael Carrick’s midfield a major priority this summer and are now working towards an agreement that would bring Baleba to Old Trafford.
United, according to The Athletic, have offered around £60million up front with a further £5m available through add-ons.
However, the package is believed to fall short of Brighton’s valuation of the highly-rated 22-year-old.
Talks between the clubs are continuing amicably, with all parties working to find an agreement that would allow Baleba to make the move to Manchester.
Landing the Brighton star would represent another significant piece of business for United following a major overhaul of Carrick’s midfield options.
Youri Tielemans has already arrived from Aston Villa, while Brazilian youngster Andrey Santos has been recruited from Chelsea.
Manchester United are reportedly closing in on a deal for Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba after stepping up their pursuit of the Cameroon international
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GETTY
United had also agreed a deal to sign Atalanta midfielder Ederson before eventually withdrawing from the transfer because of concerns surrounding the Brazil international’s knee.
Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson was another player on their radar.
However, the England international ultimately opted to join United’s fierce rivals Manchester City instead, forcing the Old Trafford hierarchy to pursue alternatives.
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Baleba has now emerged as the player United are pushing to add to Carrick’s squad before the transfer window closes.
Should an agreement with Brighton be reached, he would join Tielemans, Santos, Kobbie Mainoo and captain Bruno Fernandes among Carrick’s senior midfield options.
United’s desire to reinforce that area has been heightened by injury problems heading into the new Premier League campaign.
Manuel Ugarte remains unavailable after suffering an injury while representing Uruguay at the World Cup.
Mason Mount has also been absent for United’s final two pre-season fixtures, further reducing Carrick’s options ahead of the competitive action getting under way.
Baleba has established himself as one of Brighton’s most important midfielders since moving to the Amex Stadium from French side Lille in the summer of 2023.
Carlos Baleba pictured playing against Manchester United last season
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The Cameroon international has subsequently accumulated 112 appearances for the Seagulls and enhanced his reputation with his performances in the Premier League.
He featured 35 times across all competitions last season despite missing part of the campaign because of his involvement at the Africa Cup of Nations.
His performances have now put him firmly on United’s radar as the club continue reshaping their squad under Carrick.
There is still work required before Baleba can be considered a United player, particularly with Brighton seeking more than the package currently on the table.
