INEOS are hoping to secure the services of Carlos Baleba, and have found several allies within the Manchester United squad.
After completing their new-look attacking trident by signing Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko, the Red Devils are now focused on bolstering their midfield department by signing a new No.6.
Man Utd are searching for a physically imposing midfielder who can complement the elegant technical skills of club captain Bruno Fernandes. In recent days, Baleba has emerged as the primary candidate for the role.
The Cameroonian is a 21-year-old defensive midfielder who rose through the ranks of LOSC Lille, and has been gradually establishing himself as one of the best players in his position in the Premier League since joining Brighton in the summer of 2023.
Man United stars urge Baleba to join
As reported by Fabrizio Romano on Monday, Baleba is keen to join Man United, thus handing the club a major boost.
This stance has also been confirmed by The Athletic journalist David Ornstein and Laurie Whitwell in their latest transfer round-up.
As the source explains, Baleba has been in contact with several Man Utd stars who have been urging him to join them at Carrington. While the report doesn’t mention any names, the most likely candidates are his compatriots Andre Onana and Mbeumo, as well as his former Lille teammate, Leny Yoro.
Ornstein and Whitwell also believe that finding an agreement on personal terms won’t be an issue for the Reds. However, striking an agreement with Brighton is a completely different matter, as the club doesn’t want to sell the rising star.
Therefore, the Seagulls would only be tempted to sell Baleba for astronomical figures, potentially between £100m and £115m.
Would it be wise to spend £100m or more on Carlos Baleba
While United have shown a willingness to spend big this summer, their dealings have been in the region of £65 million, and were considered reasonable, at least based on the current market.
However, splashing a figure north of £100 million on an exciting talent who lacks top-level experience can be deemed a risky affair, one that INEOS might not be able to afford anyway.
In the meantime, MUFC will be hellbent on offloading some of their unwanted players to raise cash for their remaining dealings. Afterwards, we may have a clearer picture regarding the club’s chances of landing Baleba.
