Manchester United has identified Carlos Baleba as a serious goal in midfield, and early signs suggest that the Brighton star would welcome a move to Old Trafford.
United has contacted to investigate whether a deal could be possible, and although Brighton opposes all attempts to arouse their £ 100 million midfielder, sources suggest that Baleba would like to become a member of the Ruben Amorim project.
Baleba, who came to Brighton two years ago, quickly settled as one of the most exciting young midfielders in the Premier League.
His athletics and calmness under pressure have praised the division and attracted interest from various top clubs.
Carlos Baleba's Donut Graphic (2024/25 Premier League) OPTA by StatesPerform
United is determined to move early and to come before the queue, even if a deal is too difficult to hit this summer. Club figures are realistic about Brighton's position, but believe that laying the foundation could pay in the near future.
It is understood that Liverpool is seen at this stage as the strongest rivals in United for the signature of Baleba.
Manchester City and Tottenham have also followed the progress of Baleba, but for now every struggle seems to be aimed at United and Liverpool.
As expected, Brighton has been firmly since the contact has been contacted by agents on behalf of United. They are under no pressure to sell and continue to consider 21-year-old Baleba as a central figure in their plans.
Carlos Baleba's Touch Zones (2024/25 Premier League) OPTA by StatesPerform
For United, the interest in Baleba is part of a broader rescheduling of midfield under Amorim.
The club is looking for more physicality and dynamics in the middle of the park, and Baleba fits perfectly with that profile. He has been on the shortlist of goals for a while, but it was generally believed to be out of reach.
That can still be the case, but United is quiet for sure that the willingness of the player to join them can be decisive – if not now, then further than further.