In a bold move that signals their intent for the summer transfer window, Manchester United are preparing a double raid on Brighton & Hove Albion for their highly-rated midfield talents.
Erik ten Hag has identified the Seagulls' emerging stars, Carlos Baleba and Jack Collyer, as prime targets to bolster his engine room options ahead of the new campaign, according to exclusive reports.
The Cameroonian Powerhouse
Twenty-year-old Carlos Baleba has taken the Premier League by storm since his £23 million arrival from Lille last summer. The powerful defensive midfielder has impressed with his robust tackling, exceptional ball-carrying ability, and composure beyond his years, making him one of the division's most exciting young prospects.
His rapid adaptation to English football has not gone unnoticed at Old Trafford, where scouts have been regularly monitoring his development under Roberto De Zerbi's tutelage.
The Homegrown Talent
Adding to the ambitious move, United are also tracking Brighton's 18-year-old academy product Jack Collyer. The England youth international, who joined the Seagulls from Crystal Palace in 2022, has been turning heads with his performances for the development squad.
Collyer represents the type of promising young English talent that United are keen to integrate into their long-term project, offering both immediate potential and future resale value.
A Strategic Overhaul
This double pursuit underscores Ten Hag's determination to overhaul United's midfield options following a challenging season. With questions surrounding the long-term futures of several current players, the Dutch manager is keen to inject fresh energy and quality into the heart of his team.
Securing both players would represent a significant coup for the Red Devils, combining Baleba's ready-made Premier League quality with Collyer's exciting potential for the future.
The proposed moves are likely to test United's negotiating resolve, given Brighton's renowned reputation for driving hard bargains for their most prized assets. However, the Manchester giants appear ready to back their manager with significant investment as they aim to return to the Premier League's upper echelons.
