Manchester United are on the verge of completing a £70m deal for Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, while reports suggest Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde is keen on a move to Old Trafford. The transfer activity comes after Michael Carrick's side lost 2-0 to newly-promoted Hull City on the opening weekend of the Premier League season.
Goals from Nobel Mendy and Semi Ajayi condemned United to a disappointing return to top-flight action. Despite the defeat, Carrick insisted there were positives to take from the performance, saying: "We did some good things today and it will get lost. We have to find answers but because we lose one game, it doesn't mean everything needs dissecting."
Baleba deal edges closer
United have finally secured the signing of Brighton's Carlos Baleba for a total fee of £70m. Talks advanced last week, with the 22-year-old undergoing a medical at the weekend ahead of his move. Brighton will receive an initial £65m, with a potential £5m in bonuses, and a sell-on clause has been included in the contract.
United first targeted Baleba last summer, but Brighton refused to accept less than £100m for the midfielder. Now, Carrick has saved the club £35m and brought the long-term target to Old Trafford.
Balde 'most excited' by United
Alejandro Balde is reportedly set to seek a transfer away from Barcelona this summer and has told his agent Jorge Mendes to find him a new club. The defender was left out of Hansi Flick's squad to face Elche on Sunday, and Spanish outlet Sport claims Balde is 'most excited' by a move to United.
Benfica have also registered an interest, but Carrick could see Balde as a plan B to Lewis Hall. The Newcastle left-back was United's top target, but the Magpies are refusing to allow a transfer, prompting the club to explore other options. Transfermarkt values Balde at around £43m, and he could be the next signing at Old Trafford should United firm up their reported interest.
