Manchester United remain focused on strengthening their squad as the transfer window progresses, with multiple areas of the squad requiring attention.
A formal offer of approximately £60million plus an additional £5million in performance-related clauses was dispatched to Brighton earlier this week for midfielder Carlos Baleba.
The 21-year-old Cameroonian international represents the type of acquisition the Old Trafford hierarchy have been pursuing, with his profile fitting the requirements identified during their midfielder review.
The proposed addition would bring much-needed energy and defensive solidity to the centre of the pitch.
Baleba excels in winning back possession, ranking highly in interceptions, aerial challenges and winning duels, while also possessing the technical ability to circulate the ball effectively.
His physical attributes would allow him to operate effectively at the base of United’s midfield, potentially forming a productive partnership with Brazilian youngster Andrey Santos while providing cover for Kobbie Mainoo and Belgium international Youri Tielemans.
The recruitment team identified midfield overhaul as a primary objective heading into the summer, and the potential capture of Baleba would significantly enhance the department’s depth and quality.
Financial negotiations continue between the two clubs, with Brighton having previously demanded in excess of £100million for their asset during the previous transfer period.
United are optimistic about reaching an agreement closer to the £75million mark, particularly given Baleba’s inconsistent campaign last term.
The Seagulls opted against the large valuation after the player struggled for form and fitness throughout the season.
He was substituted at half-time on two occasions during the opening months and managed just eight Premier League starts following his involvement at the Africa Cup of Nations with Cameroon.
Despite those difficulties, Baleba demonstrated considerable promise during the 2024/25 season, and United’s analytics department have been impressed by his underlying performance data, believing he can rediscover that level and potentially exceed it at a bigger club.
The transfer market presents limited alternatives at present.
United previously pursued Elliot Anderson and Mateus Fernandes without success, and the remaining midfield options available carry significant limitations.
Regarding the striker position, Benjamin Sesko currently stands as the only orthodox forward in the squad, though Marcus Rashford, Matheus Cunha and Amad Diallo are capable of operating centrally.
Bryan Mbeumo has also emerged as a candidate under consideration.
Decisions regarding the forward line will likely depend on Joshua Zirkzee’s future, with the Dutchman having attracted serious interest from Serie A clubs.
Assistant manager Michael Carrick stated on Thursday that no squad members have communicated wishes to depart, though the Zirkzee situation warrants monitoring.
Beyond midfield, United intend to address the left-back position once the third midfield addition is confirmed.
Newcastle United have made clear their unwillingness to sanction Lewis Hall’s departure this window, with reports suggesting an extension to his current contract.
Arsenal have similarly indicated Myles Lewis-Skelly will remain at the Emirates Stadium.
Spanish full-back Jorge Salinas and Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde have both been mentioned as potential targets.
Any left-back recruitment would likely represent a budget-friendly acquisition designed to provide competition for Luke Shaw rather than displace him as first choice.
The Harry Amass situation presents a complex dilemma.
The 18-year-old enjoyed an impressive spell at Sheffield Wednesday last season and has continued that form throughout pre-season training.
Some supporters believe he merits involvement in the senior squad immediately, while others contend another season in the Championship would serve his development better.
Amass himself is understood to desire consistent first-team football, which may influence his thinking regarding a potential exit.
The outcome of discussions over the coming fortnight could prove decisive in determining whether he receives an opportunity to eventually claim Shaw’s position or pursues an alternative path.