Meanwhile, Brighton & Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba remains a sticking point. Despite United’s prior personal terms and ongoing interest, Brighton’s £100m price tag and reluctance to discount have kept the pursuit at an impasse. Brighton believes Baleba will stay, even though the Guardian has linked United to re-igniting talks.
With Baleba unlikely, United are shifting focus to West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes. The club is closely monitoring Fernandes as a potential alternative, though West Ham are reportedly seeking around £80m. United’s strategy could leverage West Ham’s financial pressures after relegation, potentially enabling a deal in the near term.
Key takeaways:
– Primary target: Elliot Anderson valued at ~£100m, with City considered the main obstacle.
– Baleba stalemate: Brighton’s high asking price and stance on discounts hinder progress.
– New option: Fernandes from West Ham emerges as a fallback, subject to West Ham’s asking price and United’s willingness to wait.
