Manchester United are seeking to bolster their team for the next Premier League season with ambitious transfer signings. The Red Devils have already started negotiations with Brighton & Hove Albion to acquire the highly-touted Cameroonian midfielder Carlos Baleba, as well as getting close to a huge signing for RB Leipzig’s striker star Benjamin Sesko. Here is an in-depth look at their plan and what that signifies for the club.
Carlos Baleba: United’s Midfield Priority
Carlos Baleba has become one of the Premier League’s most promising stars. The 21-year-old midfielder, recognized for his technical skill and versatility, has caught Manchester United’s eye. Manchester United has made contact with Brighton to discuss a possible transfer. There have been initial talks, but Brighton are said to be standing firm on an estimated €100 million (£87m/$116m) price tag for the young star.
ALSO READ: Nicolas Pépé Returns to Emirates, Punishes Arsenal in Pre-Season Defeat
Baleba is under contract at Brighton until 2028, with the option of a one-year extension, which makes it a tricky transaction for United to engineer. Brighton does not want to lose their gem, who has been an immense discovery since his transfer from Lille in 2023. Even though United desire midfield reinforcements, monetary limitations and Brighton’s refusal might make this a tricky deal.
Benjamin Sesko: A Major Target Close to Completion
Manchester United are also on the cusp of signing RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, a 22-year-old Slovenian striker who has been a long-term goal for the club. Sesko’s abilities make him an ideal candidate for Amorim’s system. United are reportedly nearing an agreement for a high-profile signing, in which they would heavily invest in the young striker.
Sesko’s signing would be a statement of intent, but it’s paid for. The Red Devils would possibly have to offload players such as Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho, or Antony in order to balance the books and finance additional deals.
Striking a Balance: Attack vs. Midfield Depth
Sesko’s signature is an important step towards bolstering Man United’s attacking options, but it could restrict their ability to sign other pricey targets such as Baleba.
Manchester United’s interest in Baleba is due to their desire for depth in the midfield. As much as the team has some of the talents of Casemiro, Manuel Ugarte, Kobbie Mainoo, Toby Collyer, and the multi-position Bruno Fernandes, Amorim wants to have more depth.
Budget Constraints Could Limit Transfer Activity
Baleba’s energy and tempo control ability can supplement United’s current options, but €100 million is the stumbling block. Furthermore, there has been scrutiny of the club’s transfer budget, particularly with the upcoming Sesko transaction.
Unless Manchester United raise funds from selling players, simultaneously targeting Baleba and Sesko appears to be out of the question.
Manchester United will conclude their pre-season friendlies against Fiorentina on Saturday. Their Premier League season would kick off on August 17 in a high-profile encounter against Arsenal, when United would look to make a good beginning.
