Manchester United is actively reshaping its central midfield during the ongoing transfer window, targeting multiple international options to shore up the squad following the departure of Casemiros. According to widespread reports across European sports media, the Premier League club has advanced discussions regarding Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba while simultaneously exploring moves for Lazio’s Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and monitoring the status of Real Madrid’s Aurélien Tchouaméni.
Carlos Baleba Emerges as Priority Target
Manchester United has positioned itself at the forefront of the race to sign Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba. According to reports from Transfermarkt and Sky Sport Austria, a potential deal for the young midfielder could climb to a significant valuation—reportedly exceeding 70 million pounds when factoring in performance-related add-ons. Sources indicate that the player has expressed a clear desire to make the move to Old Trafford.
The pursuit of Baleba forms a cornerstone of Erik ten Hag’s—or the club’s sporting leadership’s—summer recruitment strategy as they seek high-energy, physical reinforcements for the center of the pitch. While negotiations remain fluid, the financial framework discussed by outlets like Vietnam.vn highlights the substantial investment required to pry the talent away from the Amex Stadium.
Lazio Midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru on Radar
Alongside the pursuit of Baleba, Manchester United has placed Lazio midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru on its shortlist of central midfield options. According to Sky Sports coverage cited by Fussballeuropa.com, the 25-year-old Nigerian international is under contract in Rome until 2028 and has drawn interest from several English clubs.
Dele-Bashiru joined Lazio last summer for a reported 3,4 million euro fee from Turkish club Hatayspor. Across the recently concluded campaign, the versatile midfielder made 28 appearances across all competitions, logging 1,465 minutes of playing time while contributing two goals and one assist. Although reports indicate the player feels comfortable in Italy, sources suggest he would remain open to a potential transfer to the Premier League should a formal bid materialize.
Midfield Overhaul Follows Ederson Arrival
The Red Devils’ search for engine-room reinforcements comes on the heels of other completed business. Manchester United previously secured a 45-million-euro transfer for Ederson from Atalanta, bringing immediate Serie A pedigree into the squad. However, club officials recognize the need for additional depth following the exit of veteran midfielder Casemiro.
Speculation has also linked Real Madrid’s Aurélien Tchouaméni with a switch to Manchester. The 26-year-old French international, whose contract runs until 2028, remains a long-term admirer on the scouting lists of top European sides. Nevertheless, reports indicate that Real Madrid manager José Mourinho—or club leadership—has currently blocked any potential sale of the Frenchman, complicating a move during this window.
Next Steps and Outlook
Manchester United’s recruitment team continues to evaluate its options as the transfer window progresses. Supporters can expect further updates regarding the valuation and structural agreements of the prospective Baleba deal, alongside official announcements concerning any secondary midfield additions before the deadline.
Related reading
