Manchester United are reportedly eyeing a move to sign Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba as a replacement for Manuel Ugarte.
The report comes from The Sun, which claims United are prepared to cash in on Ugarte and accept a financial loss to move him on this summer.
Ugarte joined United from Paris Saint-Germain a couple of years ago but has struggled to make a consistent impact in the Premier League.
The Uruguayan was a regular starter under former manager Ruben Amorim but found himself on the periphery once Michael Carrick took charge of the club.
Ugarte started only eight Premier League matches last campaign, raising serious doubts about his long-term future at Old Trafford.
Carrick’s side have identified Baleba as a serious option to strengthen their engine room if they can successfully move Ugarte on this summer.
United are prioritising a midfield overhaul this summer, with three new players targeted and a deal in principle already agreed with Atalanta to sign Ederson.
The Old Trafford club have also been working on a deal to sign Mateus Fernandes from West Ham United, further underlining their ambitions in that position.
United attempted to sign Baleba last summer but ultimately opted against completing the deal after Brighton demanded around £100m for the Cameroonian.
His inconsistent performances last season at the AMEX Stadium could mean his price has dropped, potentially making a deal more feasible this time around.
Baleba, who is 22 years old, is a left-footed defensive midfielder known for his physical strength, technical ability, and surging runs from deep positions.
He also possesses an eye for long-range passing and is considered efficient in his defensive contributions, making him an attractive profile for a rebuilding United side.
The Sun also report that United are interested in AFC Bournemouth star Alex Scott as an alternative option to Baleba, giving Carrick multiple avenues to explore.
Whether United ultimately make a concrete approach for Baleba in this transfer window remains to be seen, but the interest is described as serious.