Manchester United are anticipated to make additional high-profile signings following the expected arrival of Carlos Baleba, according to reports. The club’s initial objective for the summer transfer window was to strengthen its midfield. Early in the window, Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos were signed in mid-July. However, updates regarding a third midfield acquisition were scarce for over a month.
The Red Devils have reportedly revisited their interest in Carlos Baleba, a player they attempted to sign a year ago. An agreement on personal terms, initially established last August, is said to remain in place. Manchester United reportedly submitted an offer of £60m plus £5m in add-ons on Wednesday, which was rejected by Brighton. Despite this, several sources suggest the deal is still expected to be finalised.
Beyond the midfield, Manchester United is also looking to bolster other areas of the squad. The club is reportedly targeting a new left-back and a striker. This suggests that the transfer activity will not conclude with the potential signing of Baleba.
Potential Striker Movement
The situation surrounding striker Joshua Zirkzee is a key factor in Manchester United‘s plans for the forward line. There is reported movement concerning the Dutch striker, with interest from Italy and other regions. If Manchester United decides to allow Zirkzee to leave on loan with a buy clause before the transfer window closes, it could trigger further activity in the striker position.
Sources indicate that while Zirkzee is currently part of United‘s plans, his departure remains a possibility. Juventus is among the clubs that have shown interest in the player, potentially as a target if Jonathan David leaves Turin. Napoli has also been linked with Zirkzee. Should Zirkzee move on, United would likely seek a replacement, with a list of forwards being monitored and an openness to new market opportunities.
One player reportedly offered to United recently is Jean-Philippe Mateta from Crystal Palace, though no significant progress has been reported regarding this potential move. The club’s transfer business this summer, while including positive midfield additions, has not yet delivered everything initially hoped for, leaving room for further strengthening.
Impact of Rashford’s Situation
The future of Marcus Rashford could also influence Manchester United‘s attacking plans. While the club did not initially anticipate Rashford featuring prominently this season, his attitude and demeanour since returning have been positive, according to sources. He is expected to start the campaign as a substitute, but could gradually become an important part of the attack if he remains at United.
Barcelona, where Rashford was on loan last season, continues to monitor his situation. They could potentially make another move if their alternative attacking targets do not materialise. The ongoing developments around both Zirkzee and Rashford suggest that Manchester United‘s transfer window could remain active until its conclusion.
The club remains open to strengthening in several areas, with a new left-back and another midfielder still considered possibilities. The focus on the forward line, however, could provide a late twist in their transfer activities, especially if Joshua Zirkzee departs before the deadline.
Source: football365.com
