Famed transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, along with sources from TEAMtalk, has confirmed Manchester United has identified their ideal midfield recruit and has received affirmative signals from the player himself.
As the Red Devils continue their quest for transformative reinforcements in central midfield, questions have surrounded which of the numerous linked players are genuine targets. Amongst Premier League talents, Adam Wharton, Carlos Baleba, and Elliot Anderson have been mentioned. From wider European football, Conor Gallagher and Angelo Stiller have been highlighted. United’s interest spans multiple names, but recent revelations shed light on their top priority.
Romano addressed the growing speculation in a recent broadcast, sharing insights on United’s primary target. “There is a lot of confusion in the media about who is the dream target for Manchester United in midfield,” Romano articulated. “My information remains that there are several names, but I keep telling you since August, don’t forget Man Utd want Carlos Baleba.”
The Red Devils’ pursuit of the 21-year-old Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder began as early as August, with Romano highlighting the mutual interest between club and player. However, Brighton was resolute about retaining Baleba at the time.
While a January acquisition seems improbable, a 2026 summer move emerges as a more viable alternative. “In January, it’s likely to be a difficult deal,” Romano noted. “But for the summer, unless the stance changes in January, let’s see what happens… but the summer of 2026, for sure, Man Utd see Baleba as a priority target.”
Baleba is reportedly eager to don the famous red kit, and as per insider Dean Jones, the interest from United has managed to unsettle the Cameroonian international at Brighton. However, negotiating a fee with the Seagulls, which values Baleba at over £100 million, presents a significant hurdle, given the player’s contract runs until 2028.
According to Jones, United is unlikely to meet Brighton’s valuation amidst Baleba’s underwhelming recent form. He reiterated that United is strategising its midfield acquisitions both for the January window and the subsequent summer, aiming for targets within reach.
In other news related to the Manchester giants, insider Ben Jacobs has verified United’s intentions to pursue a prominent Newcastle player, while club legend Eric Cantona has publicly criticised Sir Jim Ratcliffe for altering the footballing ethos established under Sir Alex Ferguson. Furthermore, United scouts have unearthed a promising midfield talent receiving accolades, though negotiations with Nottingham Forest’s owner, Evangelos Marinakis, remain challenging.
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