Fabrizio Romano: Manchester United identify 'priority target' with player 'very keen' on transfer

Manchester United remain keen on a move to sign Carlos Baleba next year as they look to overhaul their midfield options. United are expected to be in the market for at least two midfield signings, with one of those set to be a marquee addition to their squad.

United enquired over a possible move for Baleba during the summer, but walked away when Brighton made it clear they had no plans to sell him. The South Coast club placed a £115 million price tag on the Cameroon international and used the previous sale of Moises Caicedo to Chelsea as a benchmark for any transfer.

Ruben Amorim would like to sign a midfielder with Premier League experience and Baleba remains on United's shortlist ahead of a potential move next summer. It is understood the 21-year-old is also very keen on the prospect of playing at Old Trafford.

Baleba is 'priority transfer target'

Manchester United viewed Carlos Baleba as the 'perfect' midfield addition earlier this year and their verdict has not changed ahead of the January transfer window. United appreciate it is unlikely they will be able to sign a top target during the midway stage of the season, though they are open to any market opportunities that might be presented.

Baleba is not expected to be on the move until next summer, and Fabrizio Romano claims he has already been made a 'priority' addition for their midfield rebuild. It could require a club-record transfer fee, but the notorious transfer reporter insists both the club and player are keen on a deal to happen.

“It was August, here on the channel. I told you, Man United want Carlos Baleba," Romano said in his latest YouTube video. "Baleba wants to go to Man United. The conversation with the player and his agents was very good, but Brighton, at that time in August, didn't want to sell the player.

“In January it’s likely to be a difficult deal, the Baleba one, because Brighton insist on not selling the player. But for the summer, unless the stance changes for January, we have to see what happens, but for the summer, let's say for 2026, for sure, Manchester United see Carlos Baleba as a priority target.

“I gave you a video last summer saying Baleba will remain a target if the deal doesn't happen now. Man United want to insist on the deal in 2026. And that remains the case. Man United still want Baleba. Baleba is still very keen on a move to Manchester United, even more so now they are doing very well in the Premier League.”

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