Overview

• Manchester Evening News reports United will meet Baleba later this month after his international duty, with another close look expected when Brighton visit Old Trafford on October 25.
• The Athletic previously reported that United had agreed personal terms with the 21-year-old in August, though no club agreement has been reached.
• Multiple outlets say United are prepared to consider a fee exceeding £100m, while Brighton's stance has been linked to Moises Caicedo's £115m sale.
• TeamTalk and other reports frame Baleba as the lead target for 2026, with a potential record outlay part of plans to reshape Ruben Amorim’s midfield.
• United have explored alternatives including Adam Wharton, Morten Hjulmand and Ederson, with reporting putting their combined asking prices near £222m after a summer focused on attacking signings rather than midfield.