Manchester United are keen to hand an elite midfielder to Ruben Amorim before the end of the transfer window.United have transformed the side’s attack, having added Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and

At a fan forum last week, Brighton CEO Paul Barber insisted he had not spoken to United over Baleba, but was unable to provide any assurances over the midfielder’s future. ‘There’s always going to be interest in our players,’ he said.

That’s why United’s interest in Brighton & Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba makes sense. The 21-year-old is an all-action, front-footed midfielder who hoovers up ground for fun. Not only would he add intensity to the heart of the pitch, but his quality in and out of possession offers something United lack.