Manchester United have been linked with a move for a new midfielder with Brighton’s Carlos Baleba top of their list, but one alternative can now be ruled out
Carlos Baleba is top of Manchester United’s shopping list
Manchester United’s summer transfer window hit a new peak on Saturday with the announcement of Benjamin Sesko’s signing.
The 22-year-old has been brought in from RB Leipzig for £73.7million to spearhead United’s attack. The Slovenian international, along with Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha, is expected to boost United’s goal tally – only four Premier League teams scored fewer goals than Ruben Amorim’s side last season.
Sesko was introduced to the Old Trafford crowd ahead of their 1-1 draw with Fiorentina and is set to be part of the squad when United face Arsenal in their Premier League season opener on Sunday.
Now, all eyes are on who will be the next arrival at Carrington. It’s believed that any new addition will bolster the midfield, and United have been strongly linked with Brighton and Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba.
The 21-year-old, an international teammate of United stars Mbeumo and Andre Onana, has made a name for himself at Premier League level with the Seagulls over the past few seasons.
Manchester United want to sign Carlos Baleba(Image: Mike Hewitt, Getty Images)
However, Brighton are known for driving a hard bargain and won’t let Baleba go unless the price is right, despite their history of selling top talents to larger English clubs.
Albion have recently made a considerable profit from the sales of players such as Joao Pedro, Ben White, Moises Caicedo, Alexis Mac Allister and Marc Cucurella, and Baleba could be the next name added to that list.
However, after already splashing out on four new signings this summer, United might be inclined to seek more affordable options.
Javi Guerra has signed a new contract with Valencia(Image: NurPhoto, NurPhoto via Getty Images)
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One potential target can now be ruled out. Valencia’s Javi Guerra, who had been linked with a move to United, has put an end to speculation about his future by signing a new contract with the Spanish club.
The Spain under-21 international has committed to Valencia until 2029, a move which the club said demonstrates their ‘firm commitment to his development, as well as the player’s desire to continue growing alongside the club’.
However, it’s reported that the 22-year-old’s new contract includes a release clause of around £87million. While a move to Old Trafford won’t be happening this summer, United are likely to keep a close eye on his progress in Spain.