Baleba's value plummeted dramatically.

Manchester United are reportedly stepping up their plans to sign midfielder Carlos Baleba before the 2026 World Cup.

Manchester United could sign Baleba for around £50 million.

According to Sky Sports , Baleba remains Manchester United's top transfer priority. The Old Trafford club wants to complete the deal before the 2026 World Cup, despite Baleba and the Cameroon national team not participating in the tournament in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

In the 2024/25 season, Baleba made a strong impression playing for Brighton, leading the South England club to confidently value the player at around £115 million. However, the 22-year-old midfielder's form declined significantly last season.

Therefore, the British media reported that MU could finalize the deal for a fee of only around £50 million. This is considered a reasonable figure for a player with great potential but who has not yet maintained consistency under pressure.

The statistics show a clear slowdown. Last season, Baleba averaged 34 passes, won 6 duels, and made 6 ball recoveries per game in the Premier League. This season, all those figures have dropped sharply. He is now averaging only 20 passes, 3 duels, and 3 ball recoveries per game.

However, Baleba's performances improved significantly towards the end of the season. This fueled speculation that the Cameroonian player was preparing for a major transfer this summer.

At Old Trafford, Baleba is considered a long-term successor to Casemiro in midfield. With his physical fitness, tackling ability, and great potential for development, the Cameroonian midfielder is seen as a suitable piece for MU's rebuilding plan.

Source: https://znews.vn/baleba-rot-gia-the-tham-post1651001.html