Manchester United signed Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans from Chelsea and Aston Villa, respectively, this summer but there was always room and budget for another midfielder in their squad, especially in a more defensive capacity.
David Ornstein has reported that the Red Devils have now commenced their pursuit of Brighton & Hove Albion star Carlos Baleba having initiated club-to-club conversations and tabled a £65 million bid including bonuses for the player.
According to the journalist, Brighton would be looking for a transfer fee closer to the £80 million figure for the Cameroonian international but amicable talks are ongoing as both Premier League sides look to reach an agreement sooner rather than later.
United have had their sights on Baleba since last year, when he valued at £100 million, but another strong season in English football coupled with a reduction in price and interest mean the midfielder’s services are more attainable this year.
Baleba a solid signing for United
Carlos Baleba is one of the Premier League’s best deeper-lying midfielders and his signing promises to be a big step forward for Manchester United, who had required more quality and depth in midfield since last season.
The 22-year-old’s aggressive defending helps him make accurate tackles, interceptions and win physical duels, while his positioning, aerial prowess and man-marking make him brilliant to have in midfield without the ball.
In possession, Baleba is able to drive forward with the ball at his feet and is extremely press resistant, while being comfortable with making short as well as long passes with great accuracy and composure to link play effectively.
Personal terms between Baleba and Man United might not be a big issue, and it remains to be seen how much the Red Devils as well as Brighton & Hove Albion are prepared to compromise financially in order to reach an agreement over his services.
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