​Manchester United have found themselves back at the starting blocks in their midfield revamp after a series of recent developments. The Red Devils had already secured Ederson early in the summer and completed a rapid deal for Andrey Santos, following their disappointment at missing out on Elliot Anderson, Sandro Tonali, and Mateus Fernandes. With those moves lined up, Michael Carrick appeared to be short only one more addition away from his planned overhaul. However, Ederson’s transfer hit a snag when the Atalanta ace failed his medical, forcing United to reassess and realize they now require two more proven signings. INEOS may circle a familiar option as they search for Premier League-tested midfielders.
The sticking point has been Carlos Baleba. United’s interest was always tempered by Brighton & Hove Albion’s steep asking price, which had prevented a deal from progressing. There had been speculation that Baleba’s price might soften this season after some challenges he faced in the previous campaign, which also attracted attention from Galatasaray. Turkish reports from Fanatik linked the club with a £43 million offer for the 22-year-old Cameroonian defensive midfielder. Baleba himself reportedly harbors a desire to leave the Amex Stadium for Turkiye, provided both clubs can reach an agreement.
Galatasaray appeared to be intensifying their pursuit of a midfielder, reportedly opening their purse strings wide to push a deal for Baleba. The English club views him as a future pillar of their squad, and discussions over a transfer fee are said to be pegged between €40 million and €50 million. Despite the high asking price, Galatasaray’s management has continued negotiations with Brighton to craft a deal that could be acceptable to both sides. The key factor driving the negotiations seems to be Baleba’s clear enthusiasm for a move to Istanbul, with reports indicating he is ready to join Galatasaray as soon as the clubs can agree on terms.
Whether this represents a pressure tactic to induce United into a bidding war remains uncertain. What is clear is that Brighton will not easily part with Baleba for £43 million. The question now becomes whether INEOS can table an improved offer. Last summer, United reportedly valued Baleba at around £75 million, and any renewed interest this time around would likely involve a lower but still substantial bid if negotiations become protracted.
As Manchester United navigate this tricky market, the path forward remains uncertain. Ederson’s medical setback has forced a recalibration of their transfer strategy, and the club must decide whether to pursue alternative targets or revisit the Baleba option with renewed vigor. All the while, INEOS could revisit familiar names or seek new Premier League-proven options to complete the midfield revamp. The coming weeks will determine whether United can salvage the plan, secure the missing pieces, and return to their long-term midfield blueprint, or whether the project will once again require reevaluation as the transfer window evolves.