'Highly Plausible': Man Utd now want to sign PL star who destroyed Chelsea at £25m discount

Manchester United are preparing for a major midfield overhaul this summer.

Elliot Anderson, Carlos Baleba, Adam Wharton, Joao Gomes, Mateus Fernandes and Alex Scott are at the top of their transfer shortlist.

Man United made an approach for Carlos Baleba last summer but Brighton & Hove Albion swiftly rejected it.

The Athletic have now revealed that recruiting Baleba seems “highly plausible” after personal terms were broadly agreed last summer.

The Red Devils have continued to track Baleba and rate his overall data as a “good fit” for the squad in terms of ground coverage, possession-winning and passing.

Despite their strong interest, United are determined not to overpay for the 22-year-old midfielder.

The club were prepared to spend as much as £75 million last summer, but now believe a fee closer to £50 million would represent fair value.

Brighton are notoriously tough negotiators, which could become a major stumbling block.

Baleba has endured an inconsistent campaign, and speculation over a move to Old Trafford may have affected his focus earlier in the season.

However, the Cameroon international appears to be rediscovering his best form at a crucial stage.

He delivered a solid display in the 3-0 win over Chelsea.

He misplaced only five of his 46 passes and made six recoveries.

It was supposed to be a tough battle against Moises Caecido and Enzo Fernandez but Baleba looked unfazed.

United are looking to sign a traditional holding midfielder and Baleba fits that bill perfectly.

However, there are still some concerns over his mentality after his dip in concentration following last summer’s transfer saga.

You can read more about his strengths and weaknesses here.

Stats from Sofascore.com

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .