Manchester United Still Searching for a New Holding Midfielder After Baleba Blow
United cool interest in £120m Brighton star as Ruben Amorim looks to former captain Morten Hjulmand and Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton as possible midfield solutions.
Manchester United’s summer transfer window has already been one of the busiest in years, but it looks like Ruben Amorim still has one more piece of the puzzle he wants to solve. Despite spending around £200 million already, the club is still considering signing a new holding midfielder before the window closes.
United’s Transfer Activity So Far
United have splashed the cash on Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko to boost their attack. The focus for Amorim has been clear: bring in energy, creativity and goals up front. But strengthening the midfield has now become a topic of discussion behind the scenes.
At the same time, the club is trying to offload players to balance the books. Jadon Sancho, Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Hojlund are among those who could leave if the right offers arrive. Selling players would create space in the squad and funds for another big signing.
Baleba Deal Hits a Wall
One of United’s early targets for midfield was Carlos Baleba of Brighton. The 21-year-old from Cameroon is considered one of the Premier League’s most exciting young midfielders. However, Brighton’s asking price has left United frustrated.
The Seagulls reportedly want £120 million for Baleba – a figure influenced by Moises Caicedo’s record-breaking £115m move to Chelsea two years ago. With Baleba under contract until 2028, Brighton hold all the power in negotiations. United have now cooled their interest and are turning their attention elsewhere.
Amorim’s Trusted Option: Hjulmand
One name strongly linked is Morten Hjulmand, currently captain of Sporting Lisbon. Amorim knows him better than most, having managed the 26-year-old during his hugely successful spell at Sporting.
Hjulmand joined from Lecce for just £15m two years ago, but his value has skyrocketed to around £50m thanks to his performances. Under Amorim, he made 65 appearances, winning two Primeira Liga titles and the Taca de Portugal. His leadership, physicality, and understanding of Amorim’s tactics make him an attractive target for United.
Wharton Another Target
Another player on United’s radar is Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace. The 21-year-old midfielder has quickly become one of Palace’s most prized assets after his breakout performances in the Premier League.
The problem for United is that Palace are already under pressure from other big clubs. Marc Guehi and Eberechi Eze are in talks to leave for Liverpool and Tottenham, and Palace will be reluctant to let another star go in the same window. With four years left on his contract, Wharton won’t come cheap, and United will face competition from other Premier League sides.
Amorim’s Current Options
For now, Amorim insists he is content with the midfielders already at his disposal. Casemiro, Manuel Ugarte and Kobbie Mainoo are all capable of playing in the No.6 role, while Amorim has also hinted that Mason Mount could be used in that position if needed.
