Manchester United are determined to bolster their midfield options in 2026 after losing out on several key targets during the transfer window. Manager Ruben Amorim has identified midfield as an area for improvement, despite the club spending £216m in the summer. Brighton star Carlos Baleba remains at the top of Amorim's wish list after Manchester United made contact with Brighton during the transfer window.
As reported in the latest edition of the podcast, Manchester United would be keen to sign Baleba if the Seagulls reconsider their stance. However, sources say his price tag could rise from the £100m Brighton demanded for him in the summer.
Brighton have no plans to let him leave in January, forcing interested clubs to wait until the summer of 2026, when he is expected to cost an even higher fee. Baleba is a key player for United, but they may be forced to look for alternatives due to the potential cost of a deal.
The likes of Adam Wharton and Elliot Anderson have emerged as other options for Manchester United, with Amorim continuing to look for a midfield solution. However, Crystal Palace are demanding £100m for Wharton, while Nottingham Forest have no plans to let Anderson leave. Baleba remains Amorim's top priority, having been highly rated, with Como's scout calling him "exceptional".
