United keep Baleba burner simmering as Roma test the waters for Zirkzee

Manchester United are keeping the lines warm with Carlos Baleba’s camp, but don’t expect a January fireworks display. Fabrizio Romano has revealed the Brighton midfielder remains an active name on United’s list, even if the Seagulls are showing zero inclination to sell mid-season after a summer price tag hovering around the £110m mark scared suitors off.

Baleba still a live target — but Brighton hold the cards

Romano, speaking on his YouTube channel, says internal conversations at Old Trafford have carried Baleba’s name since August. Ruben Amorim sees the Cameroonian as an ideal fit for his engine room next year, and United remain in contact with the player’s representatives. The message, though, is clear: a January deal is unlikely unless Brighton suddenly decide to crack the door open. If that changes in January or the summer, United will be ready to pounce.

Sticker shock from the south coast

Brighton priced United out in the summer and have yet to soften since. Reports put the figure at about £110m for the 21-year-old, and there’s been no sign of a mid-season discount. Albion are masters of timing their exits; unless they sanction it, this one waits for the summer.

Back-up plans: Wharton and Anderson

United have scoped alternatives as they search for fresh legs in midfield. Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton and Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson are both under consideration as options that could complement Amorim’s style should a Baleba breakthrough prove impossible.

Medium-term midfield map and the Casemiro question

According to the latest chatter, United are plotting to recruit a new midfielder in 2026 amid uncertainty around the futures of Casemiro, Kobbie Mainoo and Manuel Ugarte. The latter duo have been linked with moves in recent weeks, while Casemiro’s deal runs out at season’s end. The club would be open to keeping him beyond that on reduced terms, and he’s remained productive under Amorim — four goals and an assist in 15 league appearances. There’s a bigger refresh on the horizon, but it won’t all happen at once.

Roma push for Zirkzee

Up front, Joshua Zirkzee’s opportunities have dried up — just three Premier League starts and one goal in 12 outings. Roma have now made an official approach: a loan with a conditional obligation to buy. A January exit is very much on the table if the numbers stack up for United and the player fancies a reset. At 24, he needs minutes; a Serie A move could suit all parties.

If you’re tracking how the market reads these potential moves, have a look at our best betting sites — but remember, transfer windows are won by smart recruitment and patience, not panic and price tags.

The upshot? United’s midfield pursuit hinges on Brighton’s stance over Baleba, while Roma’s bid could accelerate Zirkzee’s exit. Keep an eye on the south coast and the Eternal City — they’ll shape Old Trafford’s January narrative.