Manchester United have reportedly identified a cheaper alternative to Carlos Baleba should they miss out of their priority target before the close of the summer transfer window.
The Red Devils have significantly bolstered Ruben Amorim's attack this summer with the additions of Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko for fees of £62.5million, £71m and £74m respectively.
United have now turned their attention to the middle of park, with Brighton's star midfielder Baleba, 21, understood to be the primary target.
Baleba, who has spent two seasons as a regular starter for the Seagulls after arriving from Lille in 2023, is expected to demand a hefty transfer fee worth between £100m and £120m this summer, given he still has a minimum of three years left on his Brighton deal.