Fabrizio Romano has teased a new hint regarding Manchester United’s pursuit of a new midfielder, and mentions their potential £34.5m Carlos Baleba alternative.
Manchester United started their 2025/26 Premier League campaign off with an agonising 1-0 loss to Arsenal, despite being on top for large periods of the fixture.
When a side loses at home on the opening day of a season without scoring, everything often seems very ‘doom and gloom’ however, not in the case of Ruben Amorim’s side.
The Red Devils took a lot of positives from the match’s proceedings, including their two new signings, Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, who were both bright sparks throughout.
Despite splashing the cash on a rejuvenated front three, United are still seemingly in pursuit of a new midfielder, and with Carlos Baleba being off the table for this summer, are reportedly looking at alternatives.
Romano’s Agoume update
In his exclusive GIVEMESPORT newsletter, Fabrizio Romano has answered a question regarding whether United have a genuine interest in Sevilla’s Lucien Agoume.
Romano replied, “I’m not aware of Manchester United opening talks for other midfielders after Baleba… yet. Let’s see in the upcoming days.”
According to the same newsletter, other reports have rumoured that the Red Devils have been pushing for the signing of Sevilla’s central midfielder.
Agoume would be attainable at an affordable fee as he has a release clause of just £34.5 million; however, it is believed that United feel they may be able to bring this down as far as £20million.
United’s midfield depth
On paper, the Reds have a suitable amount of midfielders to deal with a season in which they only have to worry about domestic competitions, however, this may not be the case in reality.
Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system operates with a double pivot at the heart of the side, and requires its central midfielders to take on a lot of responsibility, as well as covering a lot of ground.
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Captain Bruno Fernandes seemingly has the slightly more attacking midfield spot locked down, leaving Casemiro, Manuel Ugarte and Kobbie Mainoo to compete for the other position, although they may not be the profile Amorim needs.
Despite their talents, it seems like Amorim wants a more mobile partner for his captain to stop his side from being overrun in the middle of the park.
With just over a week left in the window, it is now a case of waiting and seeing what United choose to do regarding their midfield dilemma, and whether they see Agoume as a suitable option.
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