Manchester United have been handed a significant boost in their pursuit of Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, with the Seagulls reportedly slashing their asking price for the 22-year-old. The Cameroon international has long been on United's radar as they look to bolster their midfield this summer, with Casemiro set to leave at the end of his contract.
According to reports, Brighton initially valued Baleba at around £100 million, a fee that proved prohibitive for United. However, the club have now reduced their demands following a dip in the player's form this season. Baleba remains under contract at the Amex Stadium until 2028, but Brighton have already begun scouting potential replacements, including Ghanaian midfielder Caleb Yirenkyi of Danish side Nordsjaelland.
Brighton chief executive Paul Barber confirmed in January that United had not made a fresh approach for Baleba. 'No call from Old Trafford. No call from anyone connected to Manchester United,' Barber said. 'We have no plans or desire to sell Carlos in this window, or in any future window, but we know he's a talented player.'
Baleba is not the only option being considered by United. Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson has emerged as a leading candidate, with former United defender Rio Ferdinand praising his dynamic style. Newcastle duo Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes have also been linked with moves to Old Trafford.
Ferdinand said: 'Elliot Anderson seems to have jumped to the front of the queue. I think he's a wonderful player. Right now Anderson seems to be ticking the boxes for the type of midfielder United need – all-action, dynamic, robust.'
