Futbor
Manchester United are preparing a summer push for Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba and intend to keep the pursuit on track regardless of what happens with manager Rúben Amorim.
United’s recruitment team view the Brighton talent as a high-upside addition capable of strengthening the midfield for the long term. Baleba’s ball-winning, composure under pressure and athletic range have attracted strong internal support, and the club are expected to maintain their interest even if there is a change in the dugout.
Brighton are known to be tough negotiators and are expected to demand a price in the region of £100m for the 20-year-old, according to industry chatter. United anticipate competition from several top European sides and are preparing for a structured proposal with performance-related add-ons to meet Brighton’s valuation.
While Amorim’s future has been the subject of scrutiny, United’s stance is that strategic targets will not be altered by managerial uncertainty. Informal groundwork and continued scouting are set to proceed, with any formal approach likely to arrive closer to the opening of the summer window.
Baleba, who has impressed with his development on the south coast, remains one of the most closely watched midfielders in the Premier League ahead of what could be a fiercely contested race.