Manchester United and Tottenham Compete for Carlos Baleba

Manchester United’s pursuit of midfield reinforcements is set to be a central issue in the upcoming summer transfer window, as the club continues to assess various candidates capable of enhancing their midfield options.

The recruitment team is monitoring a number of players while Michael Carrick aims to reshape the squad for the next season.

However, competition in the transfer market could complicate negotiations significantly.

One competing club may now be preparing to join the fray for a player that United has been tracking for several months.

Tottenham Hotspur Target Carlos Baleba

According to The Independent, Tottenham Hotspur is set to pursue Carlos Baleba as part of a major squad overhaul under new manager Roberto De Zerbi.

De Zerbi, who took the managerial position at Tottenham in April as part of an effort to stabilize the club and avert relegation, seeks players who are already familiar with his tactical style.

Among his top targets are Baleba, Jan Paul van Hecke, and Bart Verbruggen, all of whom he has previously coached at Brighton & Hove Albion.

Internally, Baleba is recognized as one of De Zerbi’s favored options due to their prior relationship dating back to the 2023/24 season.

The Italian manager was instrumental in bringing the midfielder to England from Lille in August 2023 and gradually integrated him into Brighton’s first-team setup.

During his debut Premier League season under De Zerbi, Carlos Baleba made 37 appearances across all competitions.

In the latest season, however, the Cameroon international has faced challenges in maintaining his previous performance levels, slightly diminishing the excitement that surrounded him during his initial campaign.

This shift in performance has also affected his market value.

Manchester United still expresses admiration for Baleba; reports indicate the club currently values him at around £50 million, a significant decrease from the £75 million they were willing to offer last summer.

Brighton had previously sought a fee exceeding £100 million and is expected to insist on a substantial amount before agreeing to any sale.

In March, it was reported that Manchester United held initial discussions with representatives linked to Baleba as part of their early midfield planning for the transfer window.

Nevertheless, United’s interest is not confined to a single player.

The club is exploring alternative midfield options, considering names such as Elliot Anderson, Sandro Tonali, and Ederson.

For Tottenham, acquiring Baleba would mark a key advancement in enabling De Zerbi to quickly implement his preferred system using players he already trusts.

However, with Spurs entering the competition, Manchester United could face additional challenges in what is already a financially complex situation.