Manchester United’s summer rebuild under Ruben Amorim has already seen the arrival of three high-profile forwards.
But the Portuguese manager is adamant a top-class midfielder must also come in before the window closes.
Carlos Baleba has been earmarked as the ideal candidate, with the Brighton star viewed internally as the perfect blend of present quality and long-term potential.
The 21-year-old’s dynamic style and defensive presence are exactly what United’s midfield has been missing.
His ability to progress the ball under pressure makes him a standout target in Amorim’s plans.
United’s recruitment team have been exploring ways to bring Baleba to Old Trafford for weeks, with early indications suggesting Brighton would demand around £104m to do a deal.
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However, according to Miguel Delaney’s report for The Independent, Brighton have now significantly increased that valuation.
Owner Tony Bloom is understood to be seeking a fee closer to £120m for the Cameroon-born midfielder.
United are weighing up a payment structure that could involve an £80m initial fee with the remainder in add-ons.
Although the south coast club are unlikely to entertain a player-swap arrangement – such as Jadon Sancho moving the other way.
While the club expect further outgoings in the final weeks of the window, their PSR flexibility has been boosted by how the fees for Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko have been structured.
Even so, Brighton’s hardline stance means the deal remains complicated.
United are aware they may have to wait until next summer if they cannot find common ground now.
Fans are well aware, however, of Brighton previously selling Moises Caicedo for £115m to Chelsea.
The Seagulls are known to be a selling club – selling young talents for huge fees is their forte.
Whether the Red Devils can sign him this summer though remains the intriguing part.
