13 touches, 4 passes: Man Utd target subbed off after just 22 minutes, he's "super appreciated" by Red Devils

Manchester United are poised to reinforce their defensive midfield department when the transfer window reopens during the summer.

Brighton & Hove Albion star Carlos Baleba has been identified as a prime target and it has been revealed that he is “super appreciated” by the Red Devils’ hierarchy.

However, we are not convinced that the 22-year-old would be the right signing. He has had a difficult season and was substituted after just 22 minutes last night.

The Cameroon international got the nod in the starting XI against Aston Villa on the road yesterday.

Baleba got booked after just two minutes on the clock and manager Fabian Hurzeler did not want to take any risks with midfielder, replacing him in the 22nd minute.

Aside from his early yellow card, the former Lille man managed just 13 touches and four passes. It was a forgettable night for Baleba, who was replaced by James Milner.

Brighton went on to suffer a late defeat after a Jack Hinshelwood own goal.

Baleba has been frequently mentioned as a top midfield target for the Red Devils, but based on his current season form, the hierarchy should avoid a summer approach.

He has averaged just 21 passes per league game this campaign compared to 34 last term.

His defensive statistics are down too. He has won 3.1 duels with 3.2 recoveries and 1.3 tackles in the ongoing season. He won 5.9 duels with 5.8 recoveries and 2.3 tackles in 2024/25.

The Red Devils may need to pursue an alternative to Baleba, who has looked out of sorts. Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson could emerge as a top target heading into the summer.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com

Article written by Sri Aswin .