Manchester United enjoyed a perfect start to life under new interim head coach Michael Carrick as they secured a 2-0 win over Manchester City thanks to second-half goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu.
The Red Devils won for the first time since Ruben Amorim’s sacking last week and finally gave the Old Trafford crowd plenty to be positive about, with Kobbie Mainoo’s display among the standout performances on Saturday.
The 20-year-old starlet impressed in what was only his first Premier League start of the season, demonstrating calmness and composure while playing alongside veteran midfielder Casemiro in a holding role.
With the Brazilian’s contract expiring after the season, United are expected to bring in at least one new midfielder to offset a potential departure, and their long-standing target would be an ideal partner for Mainoo.
Man Utd Confident of Carlos Baleba Deal
As revealed this week, Manchester United are likely to step up their interest in signing Brighton ace Carlos Baleba after the season, with the club growing increasingly confident that a breakthrough in talks can be reached this time around.
United wanted to sign the Cameroon international before the campaign but were put off by Brighton’s demands, which were reported to be around £115m.
However, with emerging plans to prioritise a Premier League-proven midfielder next summer, United are expected to return for Baleba and could even end up breaking their transfer record for the 22-year-old’s arrival.
According to reports, there is anticipation Brighton could still demand a significant fee for the ‘elite’ midfielder, potentially surpassing United’s record signing Paul Pogba, who joined from Juventus for £89m in 2016.
Baleba has been an important player for Brighton this season, making 16 Premier League appearances, 14 of which have been starts.
Why Baleba Could Be the Ideal Partner for Mainoo
If United secure Baleba after the season, the 22-year-old midfielder could become an ideal partner for Mainoo for the foreseeable future.
While the Cameroonian excels at covering ground, winning duels and breaking up play, his presence would allow Mainoo to operate with greater freedom and play to his strengths.
Baleba’s ability to protect the back line and progress the ball under pressure would also make him a natural successor to Casemiro, whose future at Old Trafford remains unclear.
While United are reportedly open to retaining the 33-year-old, they are looking to renew Casemiro’s expiring deal on reduced wages, and it remains to be seen whether the Brazilian would be open to such a scenario.
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