 "Fabian Hürzeler has reacted to possibility of Carlos Baleba joining Manchester United. Image: Reuters")
Manchester United was sent a stern warning by Brighton & Hove Albion FC as the Red Devils try to poach midfielder Carlos Baleba from the fellow English Premier League. Meanwhile, reports have emerged that after failing to cut a deal for Baleba, Manchester United could turn their attention towards Quinten Timber.
Brighton send warning to Man United
Amid intense speculations that Baleba will be moving to Man United as Ruben Amorim’s first-choice for a new midfielder, Brighton manager Fabian Hürzeler on Thursday shut down the transfer rumours by declaring that he is confident the 21-year-old Cameroonian will continue with the Seagulls.
“I am very, very confident," Hürzeler said. “I didn’t see any change. He seems to be in a very good place, enjoying it with his team-mates.”
The stumbling block for United in trying to sign Baleba is the steep asking price, as Brighton have made it clear that they will only entertain a deal of above £100 million. They reportedly want £115 million, the amount Chelsea paid to them in 2023 for Moises Caicedo.
United look at Quinten Timber
Man United are reportedly not interested in shelling out such a massive amount and may look at other players. They have already spent over £200m to buy Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko in the ongoing transfer window.
According to FootballTransfers, United are monitoring Feyenoord midfielder Quinten Timber. The 24-year-old Dutch midfielder has one year left on his contract, and Feyenoord are “willing to sanction a sale this summer if they receive a suitable bid.”
United are in desperate need to add midfielders to the squad as Manuel Ugarte has failed to shine, Casemiro is ageing, and Toby Collyer is set to join West Bromwich Albion on loan.
Reportedly, Collyer wants to stay back at United, but the club wants him to play regular football in the Championship.
United have also tried to sell Cassemiro to arrange some extra funds, but have failed to find a proper suitor so far.