Tottenham are not expected to pay big for Carlos Baleba, which might increase Manchester United’s chances of signing the Brighton midfielder.
According to Team Talk, Tottenham are unlikely to meet Brighton’s £100 million demands for midfield target Carlos Baleba. Spurs might pursue alternative targets instead of the Seagulls’ midfielder, which might increase Manchester United’s chances in the race.
Carlos Baleba grabbed plenty of attention late in the summer window as Manchester United’s pursuit became public. Brighton stood by their stance and insisted the midfielder was not for sale, as well as other quarters insisting they may have demanded £100 million or more.
Tottenham were the latest to enter the race, as reports stated they could potentially cause Manchester United trouble in the chase for Baleba. However, Spurs are now baulking at the £100 million-rated midfield target’s price tag, and are unlikely to pay as much for a midfield addition in January or next summer.
Spurs are indeed in the market for midfield reinforcements, as Thomas Frank wants new ideas from his players in the middle. Moreover, Yves Bissouma could be sold, although the midfielder might prefer to wait until the summer to leave on a free transfer.
Meanwhile, Spurs not being in the mix could boost Manchester United’s chances in the Baleba chase, as the Red Devils will continue to assess the market for key reinforcements. They are already priced out of moves for key targets ahead of January, although Ruben Amorim’s side are realistically only planning a big summer spree on a new midfielder.
Tottenham’s alternatives to Carlos Baleba?
Tottenham are also looking at multiple names in the market, specifically from other Premier League sides, as Crystal Palace star Adam Wharton is a key target. Manchester United are also chasing Wharton as an alternative to Baleba and others like Elliot Anderson.
Tottenham are eager to bring in a midfield powerhouse next summer or even in January to boost their squad options. The idea is to bring in someone who is a sure starter in that midfield, as the north Londoners could make fundamental changes to their setup moving forward, although in pursuit of names like Wharton or others of that calibre, they will face big challenges and competition from rivals.
