Manchester United have reportedly opened talks over a £50million move for Brighton defender Ferdi Kadioglu, who is their preferred left-back target. The 26-year-old has been linked with a late switch to Old Trafford before next week's transfer deadline, with United already having signed Carlos Baleba from Brighton this summer for around £70million on a five-year contract.
Talks underway for Kadioglu
According to Sussex World, negotiations have already started over a potential £50m swoop. The report adds that 10 per cent of any transfer fee will be owed to Fenerbahce, who inserted a sell-on clause into the deal that saw Kadioglu move to Brighton two years ago for £25m.
Kadioglu has impressed since joining the Seagulls from the Turkish outfit, and United have identified him as their preferred option to provide cover for Luke Shaw, who is currently the only real left-back at the club.
Carabao Cup meeting guaranteed
Even if Kadioglu stays at Brighton, he will be at Old Trafford in the not-too-distant future. The two clubs have been drawn against each other in the Carabao Cup third round, with the tie scheduled for the week commencing September 14.
United will be hoping to avoid an early exit as Michael Carrick looks to win his first piece of silverware as manager. Having a player like Kadioglu would be a significant boost, though it remains unclear if the transfer will be completed before the window closes.
Baleba's fitness uncertain
It is not yet known whether new United signing Baleba will be available to face his former club in that fixture. The Mali international is recovering from an ankle injury sustained in pre-season and is likely to be sidelined until the middle of September.
He could return for the Manchester derby, and if he plays against City, he might be involved in the Brighton game a few days later. However, there is also a chance Baleba may not be ready until after the international break in October, which would rule him out of both matches.
