EPL: Man United close in on £60m-plus deal for Brighton’s Baleba

Manchester United are inching closer to a £60 million deal for Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, as they seek to bolster their midfield for the upcoming season. United attempted to sign the Cameroon international last summer, but were deterred by Brighton's high valuation, which surpassed £100 million. However, Baleba's price has since dropped significantly, prompting United to reevaluate their interest in the midfielder.

Initially, United offered £60 million for Baleba, which is still below Brighton's original valuation, but negotiations are ongoing. Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler informed his squad of their impending departure to Norway for UEFA Conference League play-offs, with Baleba expected to be sidelined for another two to three weeks following an ankle injury sustained during a pre-season training camp in Austria.

The midfielder made 35 appearances for Brighton last season, earning seven yellow cards while primarily playing as a defensive midfielder. United, who have already bolstered their midfield this summer through the signings of Andrey Santos from Chelsea for £48 million and Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa for £35 million, believe Baleba could provide the box-to-box energy they lack.

The deal seems favorable for United, as they were already familiar with Baleba's qualities when they tried to sign him last year.