Carlos Baleba emerges as key target in Man Utd midfield rebuild

Manchester United have placed Carlos Baleba among their priority targets as they prepare for a sweeping midfield overhaul this summer. The club already anticipate signing two central midfielders, with Casemiro set to depart and increasing expectation that Manuel Ugarte will also move on. Yet internal discussions have highlighted the need for a third addition, given United’s long‑standing lack of depth and last summer’s failure to secure an extra midfielder.

Champions League qualification has reinforced the urgency to deepen the squad. Kobbie Mainoo is close to finalising a new contract, Bruno Fernandes is expected to stay for at least another season, and Mason Mount will remain unless a significant bid arrives.

Baleba is currently viewed as the most realistic signing. United have tracked him since last year and believe Brighton would now accept a far lower fee than the £100 million previously floated. Elliot Anderson, Sandro Tonali and Adam Wharton also remain under evaluation.