Manchester United considers a £50 million move for Chelsea's midfield anchor! Baleba may also be snatched away, with Brighton's asking price revealed.

Per Turkish source "Sporx", Turkish Super Lig winners Galatasaray intend to rival Manchester United for midfielder Carlos Baleba. They have engaged with Brighton and discovered the valuation for the 22-year-old Cameroonian international. This could provide a point of reference for Manchester United.

Baleba agreed personal terms with Manchester United last year, which are still in effect. Therefore, if the Red Devils wish to sign him, they only need to negotiate a transfer fee with Brighton. A year ago, the "Seagulls" demanded £100 million, which Manchester United deemed unrealistic. Additionally, the club was focused on reinforcing its forward line at the time, so they chose to abandon the pursuit.

Manchester United's priority this summer is to acquire a new midfielder. Unfortunately, Baleba's underwhelming performances last season have dropped him down the shortlist. The Red Devils may only revive their interest in Baleba if they fail to secure other primary targets. His price has now dropped. Although Brighton still verbally demands £100 million, they have told Galatasaray that £77 million (€90 million) would be sufficient.

Of course, it is possible that Brighton would raise the price again if Manchester United come calling. United often pays more for players than other clubs, a phenomenon known as the "Manchester United tax." This is precisely the situation that club owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is eager to change. This is why, during the recent pursuit of Matheus Fernandes, United consistently refused to agree to a fixed transfer fee of £85 million, ultimately losing out to Tottenham.

Baleba, Scott, and other targets are also not cheap. Therefore, it is reported that Manchester United is considering new targets, such as Chelsea's Andrey Santos. According to BBC expert Simon Stone, Santos is valued at around £50 million.

If Liam Rosenior remains as Chelsea's coach, Santos might not be sold. The 22-year-old Brazilian previously played under Rosenior at Strasbourg. Last season, he made 43 appearances for Chelsea, including 27 in the Premier League, scoring one goal. Santos's playing style is similar to Casemiro, but he still lacks experience.

In 2023, Chelsea signed the young Santos from Vasco da Gama for £18 million. He was subsequently loaned to Nottingham Forest and Strasbourg. After returning to Chelsea, he became the primary backup for Moisés Caicedo and Enzo Fernández. Despite making numerous appearances, only 13 of them were Premier League starts.

BBC reports that several clubs are interested in Santos, and those close to him have confirmed his willingness to consider a transfer. Chelsea has also agreed to sell at the right price. The Manchester Evening News indicates that while Manchester United has not yet communicated with Chelsea, they have indeed developed an interest in the player, as the club still hopes to sign two more midfielders.

Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano states that Manchester United had already included Santos on their shortlist. A few months ago, they discussed him during negotiations with the agent of another player, as they share the same representative. More recently, over the weekend, United contacted Santos's agent to inquire about his situation.

Romano confirms that Manchester United has not yet made a formal offer or inquiry to Chelsea, only engaging with the player's side. However, Chelsea does not consider Santos untouchable. If United makes an attractive offer, Santos could potentially join them this summer.

Manchester United is looking for a versatile midfielder capable of playing both the No.6 and No.8 roles, while also valuing physicality and running ability. Santos fits the profile perfectly and has Premier League experience. Equally crucial is that Chelsea's asking price for Santos may not be exorbitant, as Ratcliffe is reluctant to pay inflated transfer fees.

According to Stone's list, other players still on Manchester United's radar include Bournemouth's Alex Scott and Tyler Adams, Borussia Dortmund's Felix Nmecha, and Real Madrid's Aurélien Tchouaméni.