Manchester United are preparing for a strategic summer rebuild with two Premier League-proven talents high on their shopping list. The Red Devils have identified Brighton's rising star Carlos Baleba and Brentford's prolific winger Bryan Mbeumo as primary targets to strengthen their squad.
Midfield Reinforcement
The potential departure of Casemiro has accelerated United's interest in 20-year-old Cameroonian midfielder Carlos Baleba. Since his £23 million move from Lille to Brighton last summer, the dynamic midfielder has impressed with his powerful performances and adaptability in the Premier League.
Baleba's development under Roberto De Zerbi has caught the eye of several top clubs, but United believe they can secure the promising youngster for a fee in the region of £60-70 million.
Attacking Firepower
In the forward department, Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo has emerged as a serious option to bolster United's attacking threat. The 24-year-old Frenchman has proven his Premier League credentials with consistent performances, including seven goals and four assists this season despite missing significant time through injury.
With Antony failing to justify his £85 million price tag and Jadon Sancho's future uncertain, Mbeumo represents a more cost-effective and proven alternative who could be available for approximately £50 million.
New Transfer Strategy
This targeted approach signals a shift in United's recruitment policy under Sir Jim Ratcliffe's INEOS leadership. Rather than pursuing expensive, high-profile names from abroad, the club appears focused on acquiring players with proven Premier League experience who can make an immediate impact.
Both Baleba and Mbeumo fit this new philosophy perfectly - young enough to develop further but already acclimatised to the demands of English football.
Summer Revolution
The potential double signing would address two key areas of concern for Erik ten Hag's squad:
- Adding youthful energy and physical presence in midfield
- Providing genuine goal threat and creativity from wide areas
- Maintaining squad balance within Financial Fair Play constraints
With several players expected to depart Old Trafford this summer, these sensible, targeted acquisitions could represent the beginning of a more disciplined and effective transfer strategy at Manchester United.
