Manchester United are pressing ahead with their midfield recruitment as they aim to close the summer window with a marquee signing, hoping to provide a perfect partner for Bruno Fernandes in a rebuilt engine room.
Despite signs of improvement, United’s midfield has shown vulnerabilities in recent battles for control. Fernandes has often been asked to drop deeper, creating pressure on the pivot alongside him. Casemiro, while still a quality presence, is not as athletic as he once was, leaving gaps that opponents have targeted in several matches. When Fernandes and Casemiro have been aligned, United has sometimes struggled to dominate contested midfield moments.
Plan A: Baleba the main target
The club’s current thinking centers on Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba. United are working hard to land the 19-year-old, but Brighton are known for demanding top fees and for resisting offers that do not reflect their valuation. With Baleba’s future uncertain, United remain hopeful but acknowledge the possibility that the deal may not come to fruition. Brighton manager’s public comments have been cited in reports as a signal that Baleba could stay, complicating United’s pursuit.
Plan B, C and D: alternatives to Baleba
In the event Baleba does not move, United have identified other midfield profiles to fit Ruben Amorim’s system. Athletic Bilbao’s Mikel Jauregizar has been highlighted as a potential alternative. The 21-year-old is described as a dynamic central midfielder with a high defensive work rate, strong tackling, and effective link-up play. Jauregizar is highly regarded at Athletic, with a long-term contract and a record of frequent involvement in senior football. His versatility and work rate are viewed as a good match for the Premier League’s demands.
Jauregizar is not alone on United’s radar. Fichajes add Lucien Agoume and Javi Guerra to the list of prospects being monitored, suggesting a broader scouting plan that would allow United to pivot to other options if Baleba stalls or if bidding encounters resistance. This means United reportedly have a Plan A, B, C and D, reflecting a proactive approach to securing a midfield anchor that can balance Fernandes and the rest of the squad.
What this could mean for United
Even with a potent attack, success for United hinges on a midfield capable of winning the battles in the middle of the park. A Baleba arrival would bring youth and energy to press and cover ground, potentially enabling Fernandes to operate with greater freedom higher up the pitch. If Jauregizar or another option steps in, United would still be hoping to add a spine-builder who can contribute defensively and help distribute play more effectively in Amorim’s system.
Summary and outlook
United are actively pursuing a midfield signing to complement Fernandes and address gaps exposed by aging or less athletic midfield partners. Baleba remains the preferred choice, but Brighton’s stance and the possibility of a high transfer fee could complicate the pursuit. As a contingency, United are considering Jauregizar and other La Liga talents like Agoume and Guerra. With the La Liga season approaching, the club’s scouting and negotiation efforts will be watched closely by supporters hoping for a steady midfield foundation that can drive a resurgence in the second half of the season.
Additional context for readers
– Signing a proven pivot would help United control games and reduce pressure on Fernandes.
– A successful move for Baleba or an alternative would likely influence upcoming tactical setups and potential formations.
– Fans should watch for updates on contract talks, transfer window timelines, and any statements from Brighton or the players’ camps that could affect negotiations.
Overall, the focus is clear: reinforce the midfield to support a high-tempo, possession-based approach and to unlock Fernandes’ playmaking in the most effective way possible. If a deal comes through, it could mark a pivotal step in United’s return to competing at the top of the Premier League.