Manchester United are facing a big decision in the transfer market this summer. The club is very interested in Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, but the price tag is causing problems.
Baleba is highly rated by United’s new boss Ruben Amorim, who wants to strengthen his midfield before his first full season in charge. However, Brighton are asking for around £100 million, which is much higher than what United are willing to pay.
Reports say United value Baleba closer to £70 million. It has also been suggested that Baleba himself might ask Brighton to lower their asking price.
The 20-year-old midfielder joined Brighton from Lille in 2023 for £23.2 million. Since then, his performances have caught the attention of top clubs, including Manchester City.
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If City make a move, United could lose the race. If not, United might wait until a future transfer window when the price could be lower.
But Amorim may not have the luxury of waiting. The transfer deadline is September 1, and he wants midfield reinforcements now.
That means United are looking at cheaper alternatives, players who could bring quality without the huge cost.
One of the most exciting options is Lamine Camara. The 21-year-old Monaco star has been linked with Tottenham in the past and could be available for around £53 million, almost half of Baleba’s price.
Camara impressed fans in England when he helped Senegal beat England 3-1 in a friendly at the City Ground. He fits perfectly into Amorim’s pressing style, with strong defensive skills and the ability to start quick attacks.
Another possible target is Hayden Hackney from Middlesbrough. The 22-year-old played under former United midfielder Michael Carrick, which could help him adapt quickly at Old Trafford.
Hackney is known for keeping the ball well and covering a lot of ground defensively. He has not yet played in the Premier League, so he would be a long-term investment rather than an instant superstar.
Lucien Agoume is also on United’s radar. The 23-year-old Sevilla midfielder has already attracted interest from Arsenal and shone for France in the recent European Under-21 Championship.
Agoume is a tall, strong, and aggressive midfielder who is also good with the ball at his feet. His ability to drive forward could add a new dimension to United’s midfield.
A slightly more expensive option is Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace. The 20-year-old has been linked with Liverpool, and Palace reportedly want between £75-80 million for him.
Wharton is under contract until 2029 with no release clause, so Palace hold all the power in negotiations. But with his huge potential, United will surely keep watching his situation.
If United choose any of these four players, it could save them a lot of money compared to Baleba’s massive price tag. The question now is whether Amorim will gamble on potential or push hard to land his first-choice target.
