How Carlos Baleba fared in Man United audition, ‘major concern’ emerges
Carlos Baleba has been heavily linked with a move to Man United since the summer window as a result of his impressive performances for Brighton.
The Cameroon international started as Man United beat Brighton 4-2 at Old Trafford at the weekend, with United handed the opportunity to watch him first-hand.
This comes after Football Insider revealed on 23 September that Baleba has had his head turned by Man United after they attempted to sign him in the summer.
Meanwhile, Fabian Hurzeler seemed to confirm these suggestions after Brighton’s 2-2 draw with Tottenham, in which Baleba was subbed at half-time, saying his midfielder “might have been affected” by United’s interest. [The Independent]
As a result, his performance against Ruben Amorim‘s side was seen by many as an audition and chance to prove he could play a key role in their side should he make the switch.
Man United have doubts about Carlos Baleba after Old Trafford audition
Football Insider revealed last month that Man United “would love” to sign Baleba and view him as an upgrade on their current options in the middle of the park.
However, his display at Old Trafford left a lot to be desired, casting doubt about United’ pursuit given the other names on their radar in his position.
That is according to former Man United chief scout Mick Brown, who remains very well-connected at his former club, as he exclusively told Football Insider that United are unlikely to have been impressed by the performance in what is a “major concern”.
“I have to say, I was disappointed in Baleba,” he told Football Insider.
“From my earliest recollection of watching him, he was wherever the ball was, making an impact in all aspects of the game and getting up and down the pitch.
“Watching him against United, he looked heavy and lethargic, he was short to everything, he got caught on the ball and his passing wasn’t particularly impressive.
“It made me think, it seems like since last season he’s taken a step back a bit, which will be a major concern both to him and to Brighton.
“I would’ve thought that was the game in which he would show his best levels, because of the interest in him from United, because he would’ve wanted to impress.
“Especially against a United midfield which has been light in a few games already this season.
“So I don’t think he’s done himself any favours if he still has a move in mind.”
Meanwhile, Football Insider revealed on 16 August that Baleba’s price tag could exceed £100million next summer with Brighton reluctant to let him leave.
Man United considering Baleba alternatives
Alongside their interest in Baleba, Football Insider revealed last month that Man United are desperate to sign a new midfielder when the window opens.
The Brighton midfielder was believed to be among the leading contenders for the role, while the likes of Morten Hjulmand, Adam Wharton and Elliot Anderson are high on their list.
Meanwhile, Brown told Football Insider on 14 October that Anderson is Man United’s top target to strengthen in midfield as they continue to keep tabs on his progress.
Football Insider revealed on 12 September that Nottingham Forest do not want to lose Anderson and will make efforts to keep him at the City Ground.
However, that has done little to deter the interest from Amorim’s side, who have now set their sights on the England international with a move in mind.
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