EPL: Man United close in on £60m-plus deal for Brighton’s Baleba

Brighton midfielder, Carlos Baleba Photo: GETTY IMAGES

By Manchester United are closing in on a deal to sign Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba as they continue to strengthen their midfield ahead of the new season.

United attempted to sign the Cameroon international last summer but were put off by Brighton’s valuation, which was in excess of £100 million.

However, Baleba’s price has reduced significantly and, after failing in their pursuit of Matheus Fernandes earlier this summer, United have decided to revisit the midfielder.

As reported by BBC Sport on Wednesday, the Red Devils have submitted an initial £60 million offer, which remains below Brighton’s valuation, but negotiations are continuing.

United have already strengthened their midfield this summer with the arrivals of Andrey Santos from Chelsea for £48 million and Youri Tielemans, who joined from Aston Villa for £35 million in July.

Mason Mount impressed alongside Santos during United’s first three pre-season games but has since been struggling with a foot problem suffered against Paris Saint-Germain in Gothenburg on 8 August.

Baleba, meanwhile, is expected to be sidelined for another two to three weeks after suffering an ankle injury during a pre-season training camp in Austria.