Manchester United retain an interest in Lille midfielder Carlos Baleba, but the club is not actively working on a deal for the Cameroonian this summer. Baleba has been linked as a potential replacement for Marcus Rashford, though sources indicate the transfer is not a current priority.
Instead, United are focusing on technically proficient midfielders with mobility and physicality, such as Andrey Santos and Ederson, rather than a natural defensive midfielder. The club believes a 4-2-3-1 formation can provide balance without a dedicated holding player, citing Kobbie Mainoo's improvement in that role last season.
Rashford's future remains uncertain, with a departure still seen as the best option despite positive talks about reintegration. If sold, funds would likely be used to sign a left-winger, with Crysencio Summerville of West Ham and Everton's Iliman Ndiaye among the targets. On the left-back front, Patrick Dorgu's versatility is valued, while Lewis Hall remains a target but Newcastle's reluctance to sell complicates any move.
United have adopted a more diligent approach in the transfer market, prioritising value over big-name signings. This strategy has occasionally led to missed opportunities, such as Mateus Fernandes and Aurelien Tchouameni, but the club remains confident in securing its desired targets within financial constraints.
