Manchester United are facing difficulties in finding a replacement for Casemiro this summer, with two major transfer targets already off the table. After missing out on Elliot Anderson and Mateus Fernandes, the club is considering Brighton's Carlos Baleba, but experts advise against it.
United's Transfer Setbacks
United had a smooth start with Ederson's purchase from Atalanta but hit a wall when pursuing elite midfielders. Elliot Anderson was their first choice, but Nottingham Forest's £116m valuation and Anderson's preference for Manchester City ended that pursuit. Similarly, Mateus Fernandes of West Ham was priced at £85m, but Tottenham met the asking price, and Fernandes did not insist on a United move.
Carlos Baleba: A Risky Option
Brighton's Carlos Baleba is now on United's radar, but his £100m price tag remains unchanged. Brighton set that fee based on Moises Caicedo's £115m transfer to Chelsea. However, Baleba struggled last season, and Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler noted his need for consistency and a safe environment to develop.
Hurzeler told Sky Sports: "I saw a Carlos Baleba who stepped up... but he has to make habits out of those good behaviours. That's the next step in his development, to bring consistency to his performance. Carlos won't get better if he only gets compliments and claps from outside."
United cannot offer such a safe environment, as they need an immediate impact player for Champions League and domestic competitions. At £100m, United should sign a finished product, not a developing talent. Baleba remains an expensive risk the club cannot afford.
