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Manchester United are preparing to overhaul their midfield at the end of the current season.
Casemiro has already announced his departure once his contract expires in the summer, while Manuel Ugarte is expected to follow suit, even though Michael Carrick wants him to stay for now.
Former head coach Ruben Amorim had identified the middle of the park as an area in urgent need of reinforcements and had identified Carlos Baleba of Brighton and Hove Albion as his top target.
However, INEOS opted to strengthen the attack instead, and a January move for any of the top targets is unlikely.
Carlos Baleba remains a long-term target
The Seagulls’ ace has struggled for form, and that saw Elliot Anderson of Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton overtake him in the pecking order of United’s targets.
But as per The Daily Mail, Amorim’s dismissal and the Cameroonian’s struggles have not changed INEOS’ minds, and they are planning an assault next summer.
His Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) displays reminded critics of his undoubted potential while INEOS are huge fans of his physical prowess.
The only reason the 22-year-old remains at the Amex Stadium is because of Brighton’s valuation, and even though they would like to earn a £100 million from his sale, it is unlikely to happen.
Bargain fee
The 20-time English league champions feel a fee close to £75 million should get the deal done for the Cameroon international.
“Baleba is one that many expect to remain high on the shortlist, not least given United tried to bring forward that move last summer late in the window amid pressure from Amorim to bolster that position to make his 3-4-2-1 system thrive.
“United are understood to be less concerned than some supporters with Baleba’s dip in form at Brighton so far this season. His displays at the Africa Cup of Nations with Cameroon proved a timely reminder of his capabilities.
“Brighton have made all the right noises about not selling 22-year-old Baleba but around the league there is a feeling that Brighton will cash in come June and Baleba will be on the move for a price tag north of £60m, likely closer to £75m.
Baleba’s main strengths
“Physicality is a key area of focus and Baleba would elevate the physical floor of United’s midfield immeasurably, just as Moises Caicedo did for Chelsea after he left Brighton in a £115m move.”
Many have speculated that United could sign two out of the three aforementioned names. If true, fans could be in for an exciting summer window.
But until then, Carrick needs to keep working his magic to ensure United qualify for the Champions League next season.
Feature image Mike Hewitt via Getty Images
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