United plot genius move for “incredible” midfield monster at top of Brighton’s list to replace Baleba – report

Manchester United are interested in signing FC Nordsjælland starlet Caleb Yirenkyi, according to a new report. Ghanaian Gem Yirenkyi is quietly emerging as one of the brightest midfield prospects outside of a top five European league after a series of impressive performances in the Superliga, Denmark’s top division. The “incredible” 20-year-old is an all-action dynamo, capable of fulfilling a variety of functions in the engine room. For club and country, he has been deployed as a box-to-box midfielder, as well as deeper in the No.6 role. The Ghana international, who played a pivotal role in helping the Black Stars qualify for the knockout stages at the World Cup, possesses outstanding physicality. With a powerful 6’0″ frame, he possesses speed and strength in equal measure, capable of dominating duels and transitions. But this is balanced by an impressive selection of technical attributes, demonstrating comfort on the half-turn in midfield and an underrated passing game. His defensive instincts are rapidly improving, while his aggression and work rate lend themselves perfectly to the Premier League. Having come through the ‘Right to Dream Academy’ in Ghana, an organisation with an excellent track record of producing talent, he looks ready to take the step to a top league on the continent, having already outgrown Danish football. Eyed by England’s Elite Manchester United hold a long-standing interest in Yirenkyi, having been linked with a move at the beginning of the year. The club have taken an increasingly global approach to recruitment since INEOS took charge in 2024. Sporting director Jason Wilcox is understood to have instructed scouts to travel to Farum Park to keep a close eye on the youngster’s progress. He finished the season with an impressive return of two goals and six assists across 30 league appearances, despite mostly playing in a defensive role. Interestingly, Brighton & Hove Albion are also firm admirers, having identified him as a leading candidate to succeed to Carlos Baleba, who came close to a switch to Old Trafford last summer after agreeing personal terms with INEOS. Brighton’s prohibitive valuation – believed to be in excess of £100 million – prevented the deal from going through, however. Yet they remain intent on lining up replacements for their in-demand stars before they depart the Amex Stadium; a proactive, rather than reactive, approach, with the continued interest in Yirenkyi a testament to this. FC Nordsjælland are understood to be demanding a record fee for a Superliga player, which currently sits at £24.5 million. Their director, Alexander Riget, revealed “major offers” have already been rejected this summer. Often, United fans have quipped the club should bid for a Brighton player, then simply pivot towards the target they identify to take their place. In the case of Yirenkyi, the 20-year-old would prove a far more affordable option than Baleba, whose valuation likely remains far in excess of what INEOS would be willing to pay. It would be a smart tactic to sign a cheaper, younger option who looks to be every bit as talented as the expensive one, which the Seagulls’ strong interest illustrates. The Daily Mail reveals United have maintained their interest in the Ghanaian gem, who has drawn comparisons to Michael Essien. Elsewhere, Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City are reported as suitors, setting up a potential battle between England’s elite for his signature. The four Premier League heavyweights are also understood to be monitoring LOSC Lille sensation Ayyoub Bouaddi and Boca Juniors wonderkid Tomas Aranda. The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Darragh Fox Darragh is an editor for The Peoples Person who spent three years learning about the Cold War at the University of Sheffield slowly realising football was by far the most interesting thing to write about. Amad’s first touch should be officially recognised as the eighth wonder of the world.