Overview
- Reports say Manchester United have halted active pursuit of Bournemouth’s Alex Scott and Brighton’s Carlos Baleba because selling clubs’ valuations were far above what United deem fair value.
- The club’s reported pivot is driven by steep price tags cited in coverage—Scott estimated around £80–85 million and Baleba discussed at figures approaching £100 million—creating a large valuation gap with United.
- As a lower‑cost alternative, United have reportedly turned their attention to Fulham’s Sander Berge, who is valued at about £40 million and is seen as offering Premier League experience and defensive ability.
- United have already signed Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans and remain committed to a three‑player midfield rebuild this window, with the third signing now likely to be a more budget‑conscious, experienced option.
- The shift reflects INEOS’s stated push for more disciplined spending at Old Trafford and could make deals hinge less on marquee names and more on price, experience and negotiable valuations.