Baleba becomes Manchester United's third option, only considered after Anderson and Tonali are unavailable! Valued at just 50 million

Among Manchester United's numerous midfield recruitment targets, if there is one who most desires to don the Red Devils' shirt, it is unquestionably Brighton's Carlos Baleba. Indeed, he accepted United's contract terms last summer transfer window, but the transaction could not be completed because the two clubs could not settle on a transfer fee.

However, with his form declining this season, Baleba is no longer United's primary midfield target; Nottingham Forest's Elliott Anderson is now the preferred choice. Of course, Baleba remains under consideration by United's transfer department, but he is merely a "backup option." The Red Devils would only turn to him if both Anderson and Newcastle United's Sandro Tonali prove unavailable.

Transfer expert Ben Jacobs stated: "The likelihood of United signing Baleba is now fifty-fifty. The club values his mobility, energy, and potential chemistry with Kobbie Mainoo. If United definitively learn they cannot secure Anderson and do not wish to make a high offer for Tonali, then Baleba could suddenly become a more attractive option around late April or early May."

Manager Carrick confirmed over the weekend that United's progress in renewing Mainoo's contract is very promising. The 20-year-old English midfielder, as the academy crown jewel, is naturally expected to become one of the core players for the future. "We hope so, and it's progressing well, so we are optimistic about it," Carrick explained. "We are calm about it but also confident. Time will tell. Currently, we are in a good place."

It is reported that during last summer's transfer window, United and Brighton's valuations for Baleba differed by approximately £50 million, with Brighton's asking price exceeding £100 million at that time. However, reports suggest United believes if they purchase him now, Baleba's price might be closer to the club's own valuation of around £50 million.

United internally also believes that Baleba's personal terms would not be a problem. Meanwhile, despite the 22-year-old Cameroonian midfielder beginning to lose his starting position under Fabian Hürzeler this season—starting only four of the last 11 Premier League matches and completing just two full games all season—United has not ceased monitoring him.

Baleba's attributes are still considered highly compatible with United's squad, particularly his defensive capabilities, athleticism, and spatial awareness on the pitch, which would help United fill the defensive gap left by Casemiro's departure.

Wolves' João Gomes is another similar player. However, Brazilian media "RTI Esporte" reports that Gomes prefers joining Liverpool over Manchester United. Wolves' current asking price is £60 million as a starting point for negotiations, but considering the club's likely relegation from the Premier League, the fee could drop, potentially settling between £40 million and £45 million.

Manchester United manager Carrick clearly stated that he hopes the team's return to the Champions League will attract better players to agree to join. "I think the Champions League brings many positive influences; that's where we want to be, without a doubt," Carrick said. "It affects many aspects, such as player retention or new signings, and is economically crucial in many ways. The Champions League is a goal we want to achieve, and we need to work to get accustomed to participating more frequently again."

Carrick added: "Obviously, we are preparing for the summer plans, which is necessary. But are there two separate plans depending on Champions League qualification? I won't delve too much into details. I think everyone understands there is a vast difference between achieving a certain ranking and not achieving it. We are certainly working on how to best strengthen the team and make the most of the resources available."