Manchester United have been given an insight into Carlos Baleba's character as they pursue the Brighton midfielder, with former Lille teammate Amadou Onana describing him as a 'bully' in training.
United are reportedly closing in on RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko, but attention has also turned to strengthening Ruben Amorim's midfield options, with Baleba emerging as a key target. The Athletic reports that contact has been made with Brighton, though any deal would likely require player sales.
Onana, now at Aston Villa, played alongside Baleba at Lille and recalled the 21-year-old's impact when promoted to first-team training. 'He used to come up and be free, he'd bully the pros,' Onana told the Inside Scoop. 'He's the strongest kid I've ever seen. Jacked!'
Brighton could demand up to £100m for Baleba, who has three years left on his contract. United value him closer to £70m, and it is suggested the player might push for a reduced fee. However, Brighton chief executive Paul Barber has downplayed the speculation, stating: 'Manchester United have not been in touch with me. Carlos is a fantastic talent... we hope he will be here for many years to come.'
United are prioritising a deal for Sesko, having lodged a bid of around £65.3m plus £8.7m in add-ons, with Newcastle also interested but the Slovenian favouring Old Trafford.
