Manchester United reportedly have a new priority target over Carlos Baleba amid Rúben Amorim’s desire to sign a midfielder in 2026.
Manchester United are planning to add at least one new midfielder in 2026, though it remains unclear whether that reinforcement will arrive in January or during the summer window.
Last summer, Rúben Amorim and United’s recruitment team saw Carlos Baleba as the ideal addition to their midfield, but Brighton’s valuation of £100 million forced the club to back away. United had already settled personal terms with Baleba, who was eager to join.
The club are also monitoring Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson, and Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace continues to be mentioned as a serious option.
Meanwhile, reports this month have linked United with a possible January move for Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder Joao Gomes, as Wolves fight to avoid relegation.
United want Anderson over Baleba in 2026
Despite United’s attempts to sign Baleba last summer, the Cameroon international’s poor start to the season has seen him usurped in the transfer priority list.
According to transfer expert David Ornstein of The Athletic, although the 21-year-old remains high on the club’s list of possible midfield signings, he has been jumped in the queue by Forest’s Anderson.
It is stated that the England international is now the side’s new primary target in the position following his stellar displays for both Thomas Tuchel and at the City Ground.
It is also reported that Crystal Palace star Wharton, who is known to have a close relationship with Kobbie Mainoo, is being considered as a possible option, which could further impact Baleba’s chances of securing his dream transfer.
No truth in reports linking Gomes to United
Another player who is reportedly on the club’s midfield transfer list is Wolves’ Gomes, with claims from Brazil going as far as stating talks are at an advanced stage, and the player has already agreed to the move.
However, Ornstein further clarified that United’s word is that there is no truth to the recent reports, and that they are not currently pursuing the midfielder.
Similarly, those in the Wolves camp deny any knowledge of interest from AMorim’s club, insisting that no transfer talks have taken place.
However, there is no smoke without fire, and amid Amorim’s possible need for at least two midfielders this summer and his desire for Premier League-proven players, a move for Gomes to United could surface next year.
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