Manchester United are copying one of the transfer tactics used to secure Bryan Mbeumo in their pursuit of Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba.
Manchester United are aiming to make a statement in the closing weeks of the summer transfer window by targeting Brighton’s Carlos Baleba.
Rúben Amorim has already been backed with three significant first-team additions in Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Šeško; signings expected to address United’s attacking concerns.
However, the squad still requires reinforcement in other areas, and Baleba is seen as a player who could instantly bolster the midfield.
United are confident the 21-year-old is keen on the move, but Brighton are expected to make negotiations far from straightforward.
United copying Mbeumo transfer tactic for Baleba
One of United’s major focuses this summer has been to secure the ‘buy-in’ of their transfer targets before making moves to sign them and that is the same story with Baleba.
United have been speaking to the player’s representatives and it is believed that he is keen on a move, according to The Athletic.
That report also noted how several United players have been in contact with Baleba to speak about his potential Old Trafford move, explaining the current landscape and ambitions of the club.
Mbeumo and André Onana both play internationally with Baleba for Cameroon, while Leny Yoro played alongside him at Lille before their respective Premier League moves.
Interestingly, Yoro and Onana were two players who spoke to Mbeumo before his Old Trafford arrival and it seems like that same tactic is being used with Baleba.
Getting player ‘buy-in’ is crucial
Brighton are one of the toughest negotiators in the country and no one is under the impression that United will secure an easy deal for Baleba.
But there is certainly a better chance of success in negotiations if they can properly convince Baleba of the move and that is exactly what the Reds are trying to do.
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It seems to be working but the coming days are expected to be key in this transfer saga as United attempt to understand whether a deal is actually possible this summer.
Next year, there will be plenty of clubs interested in a talent like Baleba and it would be hugely beneficial if United could steal a march on their opposition.
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