United's Baleba Bid
Manchester United Nears Carlos Baleba Signing, Brighton Demands £100m for Midfielder
Marcus Rashford has returned to Manchester United after a 20-month absence and is already making an impact off the pitch — mentoring two young academy talents, according to The Sun. United chiefs are said to be "seriously impressed" by his attitude since coming back.
On the transfer front, United are closing in on Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba. BBC reports that United made an initial £60m offer, but Brighton are holding out for closer to £100m.
Rashford Takes Teenage Stars Under His Wing
Rashford made his first United appearance in 20 months during a pre-season defeat. But it is his work behind the scenes that has turned heads. The Sun says he has been closely working with teenagers JJ Gabriel and Shea Lacey. The club's top brass are reportedly "seriously impressed" by his commitment.
The move signals a possible fresh start for Rashford at Old Trafford. His return comes after a difficult spell away from the club. Mentoring young players could help rebuild his image at United and show a new level of maturity.
Baleba Talks Ongoing as Brighton Hold Firm on Price
United are pushing hard to sign Carlos Baleba from Brighton. The Cameroon international made 35 appearances for Brighton last season. According to BBC, United opened with a £60m bid — well short of Brighton's £100m asking price. The two clubs are still talking.
Baleba is currently sidelined with an ankle ligament injury. He is expected to be out for another two to three weeks, Yahoo Sports reports. That has not cooled United's interest. Talks are described as ongoing and the deal is seen as close.
United's Midfield Already Reshaped This Summer
United have already been busy in midfield this transfer window. They signed Andrey Santos from Chelsea and brought in Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa for £48m. Adding Baleba would give the club a third new central midfielder in a single summer.
United also tried and failed to sign Matheus Fernandes earlier this summer, according to BBC. Baleba now appears to be the top target to fill that gap. Manager Ruben Amorim is clearly looking to rebuild the engine room at Old Trafford.
What Comes Next for United's Busy Summer Window
The gap between United's £60m offer and Brighton's £100m valuation is large. But both sides appear willing to keep talking. A final fee somewhere in between looks likely if a deal is to get done before the window closes.
Meanwhile, Rashford's revival story is one to watch. His mentoring role with Gabriel and Lacey suggests United may be counting on him beyond this pre-season. If his attitude holds, a full comeback to the first team could follow, according to The Sun.
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