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Manchester United’s plans to overhaul their midfield are beginning to take clearer shape, and there may be more positive developments ahead if recent reports prove accurate.

So far in this summer transfer window, the Red Devils have failed to secure the signatures of Elliot Anderson, Sandro Tonali, and Mateus Fernandes, while their agreement with Ederson was cancelled due to medical concerns.

With only a month remaining before the new season, supporters had every reason to be concerned, as newly appointed head coach Michael Carrick was left short of options in the middle of the park.

Fortunately, INEOS have stepped up in style by completing deals for Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans, and Karl Darlow.

Both the Brazilian and Belgian midfielders are expected to fit directly into Carrick’s plans, though the coach has requested one more addition to his midfield unit.

Having already added a playmaker and a tempo controller, the 20-time English league champions are now seeking a physically dominant presence — someone who can cover large areas of the pitch and win duels with ease.

Last summer, United had earmarked Carlos Baleba for that role, but negotiations fell through as Brighton & Hove Albion’s steep valuation made a deal impossible.

The Seagulls have a reputation for being tough negotiators, which explains United’s caution, but Galatasaray’s recent talks with the club from the Amex Stadium have reportedly given INEOS renewed optimism.

According to Football Insider, United are prepared to revisit their pursuit of the Cameroonian midfielder if Brighton decide to lower their asking price.

At present, the South Coast side could be open to reconsidering their valuation, though the exact figure remains uncertain.

“Manchester United could reignite their interest in Carlos Baleba if they are given encouragement by Brighton, sources have told Football Insider.

The 22-year-old was a top target for Man United last summer, before Brighton placed a £100million price tag on him and ended any speculation over his future.

“Brighton may be prepared to drop Baleba’s asking price, leading to fresh interest. Man United could step up their efforts to sign the Cameroon international should his price tag be lowered, having already missed out on a number of midfield targets this summer.”

Reports also indicate that United were willing to offer £75 million for Baleba last year, but following his inconsistent performances in the previous season, INEOS are now aiming to pay a reduced amount.

Whether Brighton agree to a revised valuation remains to be seen. The next few weeks promise to be intriguing for fans as they wait to discover who will become United’s third midfield signing of the summer.