Manchester United are currently engaged in a significant midfield overhaul, as they pursue a second acquisition after finalizing a full agreement to bring Ederson in from Atalanta.
The Brazilian is reported to have undergone a medical in New York on Sunday ahead of finalizing his transfer to Manchester United, following the club's arrangement with the Serie A side for a fee just under £40 million to secure his services.
Ederson had just one year left on his contract with the Bergamo-based club, and United officials acted swiftly to bring him to Old Trafford after the player decided he exclusively wanted to join them.
A comparable scenario is unfolding for West Ham United's Mateus Fernandes, with United entering 'official' discussions to sign the Portuguese star through his agent Jorge Mendes, as they get ready to submit an initial offer to the recently-relegated Hammers for the player.
According to Fabrizio Romano, West Ham value the 21-year-old at £85 million despite now being a Championship club, though United will likely aim to secure him for a reduced fee as they intensify their pursuit.
Real Madrid and Arsenal have expressed interest in the young Portugal international, but it is believed that a move to United is his most probable destination, with the player eager to join Bruno Fernandes at the 'Theatre of Dreams'.
Baleba in Talks with Man United Players Over Move
Even if United finalize a deal for Mateus Fernandes following Ederson, some outlets have suggested that another central midfielder could still be pursued if Manuel Ugarte follows Casemire out of the Old Trafford exit.
Journalist Chris Winterburn has stated that the Red Devils will target either Brighton and Hove Albion's Carlos Baleba or Newcastle United's Sandro Tonali after any potential Fernandes deal, as they aim to complete a significant midfield rebuild.
The Sun recently reported that Baleba has been in communication with United players about a switch to Old Trafford, having also come close to joining the Red Devils last summer.
GIVEMESPORT understands that an agreement on personal terms has already been in place for the Cameroon international since last summer.
Baleba Seen as the 'New Casemiro'
One report previously indicated that United officials view Baleba as the 'new Casemiro', and given his physical attributes, athleticism, and ball-winning capabilities, it's easy to see why.
Baleba certainly had a stronger 2024-25 season than the previous campaign, with his performances showing less consistency.
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However, United clearly recognize the potential in the 22-year-old, who is still a young player despite having previously delivered performances beyond his years.
Brighton valued Baleba at £100 million last summer, but United will hope they can secure him for a reduced fee in the upcoming transfer window due to his dip in form.
If the Red Devils can negotiate lower fees for both Fernandes and Baleba in the coming weeks, it would be an obvious decision and leave them with a robust midfield ahead of their Champions League return.
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