Manchester United are closing in on a deal to sign Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, revisiting a move they abandoned last summer when the Cameroon international's price proved too high. The renewed interest comes after United's pursuit of Matheus Fernandes fell through earlier this summer, and represents a further reinforcement of the club's midfield options for the new season.

United's initial offer of £60m remains below Brighton's valuation, though talks are continuing, with the fee having dropped significantly from the £100m-plus Brighton wanted last year. United have already signed midfielders Andrey Santos from Chelsea (£48m) and Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa (£35m), while Mason Mount is nursing a foot injury. Baleba himself is sidelined with an ankle ligament injury and expected to be out for two to three weeks, with Brighton preparing to face Tromso in the Conference League play-offs.