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Manchester United's Interest in Carlos Baleba Highlights Midfield Issues

Posted on August 08, 2025

Manchester United's recent agreement to sign RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko for £74 million has raised questions about the club's midfield situation. While United has invested heavily in its forward line, surpassing £200 million in summer spending, the team now faces a pressing need to address its midfield depth and dynamics, particularly with the potential acquisition of Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba.

Head coach Ruben Amorim is focused on boosting his squad's goal-scoring capabilities, following a disappointing league performance last season. Despite the exciting offensive signings of Sesko, Matheus Cunha, and Bryan Mbeumo, doubts linger regarding the midfield setup, especially with Bruno Fernandes expected to take on a deeper role. Although Amorim defends Fernandes's ability to adapt to the position, concerns remain about his effectiveness as a box-to-box midfielder.

The inquiry into Baleba underscores the urgency for United to find a more suitable partner for Fernandes. The 21-year-old Cameroonian midfielder is known for his energy and all-around capabilities, characteristics that would complement Fernandes’s style. However, with Baleba's potential transfer likely requiring a significant financial commitment, United may face challenges in balancing their budget while offloading unwanted players from their squad.

Additionally, the club’s existing midfield options present mixed results. Players like Casemiro, while experienced, are aging and may not fulfill the demands of a high-paced midfield, while younger prospects like Kobbie Mainoo and Toby Collyer are still developing. This has led to speculation that if no suitable internal candidates emerge, United will need to invest further in the transfer market to solidify their midfield.

Ultimately, as the summer transfer window progresses and with the start of the season looming, the question remains: can Manchester United effectively address its midfield deficiencies while maintaining its recent momentum in strengthening the forward line? Baleba's situation is indicative of a broader need for strategic planning as the club navigates its roster and ambitions for the upcoming season.

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