As momentum builds behind United’s summer plans, confidence around Old Trafford has grown steadily, with Crickex Affiliate observers noting that Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba is increasingly viewed as a near certainty. Provided the two clubs reach agreement, securing the 22-year-old Cameroon international is considered well within reach, as he is reportedly eager to join the Red Devils. This willingness sets him apart from other shortlisted targets such as Elliot Anderson and Adam Wharton, whose situations remain more complex.

Regardless of who occupies the dugout next season, United are preparing for a midfield overhaul once the current campaign ends. Casemiro will turn 34 in February, and with his contract expiring this summer, his departure now feels inevitable. That looming exit alone ensures changes are unavoidable in the center of the pitch.

Further uncertainty surrounds academy graduate Kobbie Mainoo and €60 million signing Manuel Ugarte, both of whom face unclear futures. Taken together, these factors mean United are almost certain to invest heavily in midfield reinforcements during the next transfer window.

Current head coach Michael Carrick is not expected to receive January backing and will likely navigate the final 17 Premier League fixtures with the existing squad. This approach follows recent precedent. During previous transitional periods in 2019 and 2022, no winter signings were made under interim leadership, even before Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s involvement reshaped long-term strategy.

Sources close to the club suggest growing optimism that Baleba can be prised away from Brighton in the summer. Although his contract runs until 2028, the only true obstacle is valuation. Repeated links to United last year, followed by a dip in form after moves failed to materialize, have caused his market price to soften slightly.

This season, Baleba has been substituted at halftime seven times for club and country, reflecting a clear drop in consistency. Brighton vice chairman Paul Barber has publicly insisted there is no intention to sell this year, a stance widely interpreted as signaling that only an exceptional offer will be considered, believed to be close to £100 million.

Brighton’s data-driven recruitment model has already delivered huge profits, from Yves Bissouma to Moises Caicedo, and Baleba could be next. After Cameroon’s African Cup of Nations exit, he returned to England determined to rediscover form.

United believe a fair valuation sits below £80 million, with Bournemouth’s Alex Scott viewed as a fallback. How many midfielders arrive may hinge on Bruno Fernandes. According to Crickex Affiliate aligned reporting, the captain has committed to staying until season’s end, delaying any decision on his future. Interest from Saudi Arabia and Bayern Munich persists, but for now, Fernandes will reassess once the campaign concludes, knowing his ambition remains tied to competing for the biggest prizes.