Manchester United have been exploring a move for Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba since last summer.
With Casemiro confirmed to be leaving the club at the end of the season, Manchester United are looking for a new defensive midfielder to replace the outgoing Brazilian.
Manuel Ugarte, who currently plays backup to Casemiro, also looks likely to leave Old Trafford after a difficult two years in red since his move from Paris Saint-Germain.
Michael Carrick also has no backup for Kobbie Mainoo, as proven when the England international missed the game against Leeds United, leaving United needing three midfielders.
A report from The Athletic suggests that one youngster will take up one of the spots, with Tyler and Jack Fletcher, as well as Jim Thwaites, now in and around the first team.
However, this still leaves United needing two senior midfielders for next season, especially with Champions League to play next campaign.
United's stance on Baleba
Carlos Baleba appeared to be United's favoured option last summer, but they were priced out of a deal after Brighton and Hove Albion requested over £100 million. With United still needing to finalise Senne Lammens and Benjamin Šeško, Baleba's price tag was simply too much.
The Brighton midfielder's form fell off a cliff at the start of the season, but United are still interested in Baleba, as recently confirmed by Fabrizio Romano.
"The Cameroon midfielder from Brighton was a top target last summer for Man United, and remains one of the names under consideration.
"Again, still nothing decided, still nothing advanced."
Baleba is one of several Premier League midfielders to be linked with Manchester United this summer. Elliot Anderson is the top target, but Sandro Tonali and Adam Wharton have also been mentioned.
Funding both midfielders will be United's biggest issue, with a left-winger and a left-back also on the shortlist, not to mention the need for a goalkeeper if Altay Bayindir and Andre Onana leave the club.
Should United go for Baleba?
Despite their interest in Anderson, United look like they will miss out on the Nottingham Forest midfielder, with Manchester City the favourites to sign him.
Aurélien Tchouaméni is another name to be linked with a move to Old Trafford. He was among the list of midfielders Erik ten Hag was looking at when Casemiro agreed to move to Manchester.
Tchouaméni's Real Madrid experience makes him a brilliant option for United, especially if he is going to cost less than £100 million.
United will not be able to afford too many signings over £100 million in such an important summer transfer window, which could see the Reds move up the table.
Arsenal and Manchester City lead the way in English football, but United are not too far away. A good summer could see the Red Devils fight at the top next season.