Man Utd can sign Carlos Baleba transfer alternative for £60m less | Football | Sport

Manchester United are reportedly setting their sights on Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes as a potential January acquisition, in a deal that could save them £60million compared to Carlos Baleba. The Red Devils have been linked with a possible swoop for the Brighton star, but it’s suggested that the Seagulls would demand around £104m for the Cameroon international.

Portuguese outlet Record claim that Gomes would be open to a switch to Old Trafford, potentially leaving the Premier League strugglers behind. Wolves’ precarious standing in England’s top-flight is being touted as a potential bargaining chip for the ex-Flamengo midfielder, with the Daily Mail reporting that United were priced out of moves for Baleba and Conor Gallagher during the summer transfer window.

Ruben Amorim had a summer spending spree, bringing much-needed reinforcements into his squad, including Senne Lammens, Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha from Wolves.

Their expenditure surpassed £230m after these additions, but so far, they’ve seen the benefits after seeking a response following one of their worst top-flight seasons in decades. United ended up 14th last term and missed out on European qualification after losing in the Europa League final to Tottenham.

With quality added in attack and goalkeeping positions, it’s widely believed that midfield will be their next area of focus as Casemiro approaches the end of his football career, turning 34 in February.

England’s rising stars, Adam Wharton and Elliot Anderson, are attracting attention due to their impressive performances for Crystal Palace and Nottingham Forest, respectively.

Their standout displays in the Premier League have put them in high demand, and calls for their inclusion in this summer’s World Cup squad could potentially inflate their already substantial transfer fees.

ESPN previously said that both Manchester clubs have shown interest in Baleba, with Pep Guardiola reportedly being a long-time admirer of the midfielder. A fierce competition is expected between the two clubs for his signature.

During the summer, it was speculated that Brighton would ask for a whopping £104m for Baleba. However, after he remained at the AMEX Stadium, it’s unclear what the asking price will be next summer, given the high demand for the midfielder.

Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler acknowledged earlier this season that the transfer rumours over the summer had affected Baleba’s form.

He said last month: “I think it’s normal for a young player when the media creates the noise around him,’ he said. ‘It’s not easy for this player to handle it.

“Therefore, we need to give him the time and support so he comes back to his best performance.

“But he’s a young player and I think that’s something we have to accept, that young players don’t always have the face we want to see.”