Manchester United have reportedly identified an alternative option to Carlos Baleba after missing out on signing the Brighton midfielder last summer.
Much of Manchester United’s summer spending was directed at fixing their lack of goals, after managing only 44 in the Premier League last season.
The club committed around £214 million to bring in a new attacking trio of Benjamin Šeško, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha, before shifting their attention to midfield reinforcements. A move for Carlos Baleba was pursued but ultimately proved too expensive.
With André Onana yet to convince supporters of his consistency in goal, United acted on deadline day by signing Belgian goalkeeper Senne Lammens for £18 million.
Next summer, the club are expected to return to the market in search of a midfielder, while also, perhaps surprisingly, targeting another position they have already strengthened.
Conor Gallagher identified as alternate option
Joining Atletico Madrid in 2024, Conor Gallagher enjoyed an impressive first season, cementing his place in Diego Simeone’s midfield.
Despite reports during the summer stating that the 25-year-old was held in high regard by manager Diego Simeone, things have changed this season.
As reported by the Daily Express, the Argentine manager is now unconvinced by Gallagher’s value to his squad, and could be open to selling him, opening the door for the possibility for United to swoop in and set their sights on the former Chelsea and Crystal Palace midfielder as a Plan B if a deal for Carlos Baleba doesn’t materialise.
It’s believed that Atletico Madrid’s president values the Englishman at around £50 million if the Spanish club were to allow the player to leave. It’s reported that securing Champions League qualification would enhance United’s chances of attracting Gallagher to Old Trafford next summer.
Latest on Carlos Baleba
While he was sounded out as United’s main transfer option last summer, that may not be the case in 2026, as several midfield targets have now been identified.
With the club’s midfield department already light in depth, Casemiro’s almost certain departure next summer means that United are expected to make two midfield signings.
Read More: Manchester United set to rival Chelsea and Tottenham for promising forward after deadline day switch
Despite the rumours of alternative options, reports still indicate that Baleba will be the main midfield target next summer, as United look to invest a significant amount of money in the middle of the pitch.
Eduardo Camavinga has also been touted as a potential alternative, after the ‘brilliant’ Frenchman’s game time has been limited this season, after the appointment of Xabi Alonso at Real Madrid.
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