Man United want Mbeumo’s international teammate – Cameroonian is a target

Manchester United are reportedly ramping up their pursuit of Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, with the Seagulls already lining up a potential successor and a reduced fee now in play. The Red Devils first approached Baleba last summer, and the Cameroon international was open to the switch, but Brighton’s £100m valuation proved too steep at the time.

Things have shifted slightly this season, with Baleba not quite hitting the same heights, partly due to ongoing transfer speculation affecting his early form. Even so, he remains one of the Premier League’s most highly rated young midfielders and a key name on United’s shortlist.

United’s plans have also been influenced by Manchester City’s strong push to sign Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, prompting them to look more seriously at alternatives like Baleba, Adam Wharton, and Sandro Tonali.

According to Centre Devils, INEOS are now accelerating their summer strategy, with fresh talks held with Baleba’s camp last month — a clear sign of renewed intent. The 22-year-old is still open to the move, and personal terms are not expected to be an issue.

United believe they can now land Baleba for closer to £70m, with Brighton unlikely to demand their previous £100m asking price following his dip in form. While missing out on Anderson would sting, Baleba is understood to be United’s top choice for a defensive midfield role.

Brighton, for their part, are already planning for life without him and have identified a replacement. Meanwhile, with Casemiro set to depart and Manuel Ugarte also likely to be sold, United are targeting two midfield additions this summer.

Bavarians join Manchester clubs in the race for Forest youngster

A move for Wharton or Tonali could still follow a deal for Baleba, though that would push total spending beyond £130m. As a result, INEOS may instead turn to more budget-friendly options such as Morten Hjulmand, Joao Gomes, or Freiburg’s Johan Manzambi.