Manchester United and Brighton & Hove Albion are reportedly nearing an agreement for the transfer of midfielder Carlos Baleba. United has made an initial offer of approximately £60 million, plus an additional £5 million in performance-related add-ons. However, this offer is believed to be below Brighton's expectations for the 22-year-old Cameroonian international.

Discussions between the clubs are ongoing, with both parties aiming to finalize the deal. Baleba is currently in the process of recovering from an ankle ligament injury, but it is not considered serious and is not expected to hinder his long-term fitness.

Midfield has been a key area of focus for Manchester United during the summer transfer window. The club has already secured the signings of Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa and Andrey Santos from Chelsea. Additionally, they had previously agreed on a deal for Atalanta midfielder Ederson, which was later abandoned due to injury concerns. United also expressed interest in Elliot Anderson, but he opted to join rivals Manchester City.

If the transfer for Baleba goes through, he would join a midfield lineup that includes Tielemans, Santos, Kobbie Mainoo, and Bruno Fernandes, providing head coach Michael Carrick with multiple options. Notably, Manuel Ugarte is currently sidelined with a knee injury sustained during the World Cup, and Mason Mount has missed the last two pre-season matches.

Baleba joined Brighton from Lille in the summer of 2023 and has since made 112 appearances for the club. Last season, he played 35 matches, although he missed several due to his participation in the Africa Cup of Nations.

Manchester United's interest in Baleba has been long-standing. Despite a challenging season at Brighton, his performances in his first two Premier League seasons and recent displays for Cameroon during the Africa Cup of Nations have kept him on United's radar. The club values his metrics, particularly his ability to cover ground, win possession, and pass effectively. His left-footedness also offers potential versatility, possibly allowing him to play at left-back.

Last season, Baleba was substituted in 15 Premier League matches, including four times at halftime. His form at Brighton was reportedly affected by United's interest, but he regained confidence while playing for Cameroon. He completed 90 minutes in three matches last season, including a notable performance in a 3-0 victory over Chelsea.

Initially, when Baleba's stock was high, Manchester United was prepared to offer £75 million, but Brighton sought over £100 million. Now, it appears that United is on the verge of securing a deal for a significantly lower fee.