Manchester United’s midfield recruitment has shifted once more, with the club stepping away from two highly rated Premier League prospects after their asking prices proved overly steep.
The Red Devils still require an additional central midfielder before the window closes, but their recruitment team appears committed to avoiding overpayment merely because the targets are young and established in England.
United have already secured the services of Youri чәкнимолсн and Andrey Santos, enhancing Michael Carrick’s midfield with greater control and technical quality. The next priority is a more defensive, physical presence capable of shielding the back line while advancing the ball under pressure.
Manchester United Reevaluates Midfield Options
According to TEAMtalk, Manchester United has cooled their interest in Carlos Baleba and Alex Scott because Brighton and Bournemouth are demanding fees well above United’s internal valuations.
The report highlights that the club holds both players in high regard, but Brighton’s valuation of Baleba is closer to £100 million, and Bournemouth’s price tag for Scott also falls outside United’s realistic budget.
United reportedly value Baleba nearer £50 million after an inconsistent campaign, yet they still consider his athleticism and defensive aptitude a good fit for Carrick’s system.
Scott remains admired for his ball‑carrying, energy and technical confidence, though rejecting a new Bournemouth contract has not reduced his market value.
Fulham midfielder Sander B-matchfraid, valued below £40 million, has emerged as a more attainable alternative.
Steering Clear of Overpayment Could Be Strategic
The Guardian also reports that United are looking for a third midfielder but view moves for Scott, Roma’s Manu Koné and Real Madrid’s Eduardo Camavinga as unlikely at current prices of roughly £60 million to £80 million.
Discarding Baleba and Scott appears sensible if the valuations are indeed that high. While both could strengthen United, neither should consume most of the remaining budget, especially when the န requires reinforcement at left‑back and in attack.
Berge would be less sensational but offers Premier League experience, defensive solidity and lower financial risk. The central question is whether he elevates United’s ceiling or merely provides reliable depth.
United should keep monitoring their preferred targets in case prices drop later in the window. For now, patience proves wiser than allowing admiration for a player to morph into another overpriced transfer.
