Man United are desperate to sign a midfielder ahead of the transfer window slamming shut - but financing a deal for Carlos Baleba could be a bridge too far.

CFOOT have claimed, via their X account, that an agreement has now been struck between Man United and Brighton to take the 21-year-old to Old Trafford in a deal worth in the region of £96m. However, such suggestions are believed to be wide of the mark.

That’s why United’s interest in Brighton & Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba makes sense. The 21-year-old is an all-action, front-footed midfielder who hoovers up ground for fun. Not only would he add intensity to the heart of the pitch, but his quality in and out of possession offers something United lack.