Mount Injury Shows United Midfield Problems
Mason Mount’s latest injury setback has once again highlighted Manchester United’s lack of depth in midfield, although the club are not currently advancing with a move for Brighton’s Carlos Baleba. Fabrizio Romano reports that Baleba remains keen on a move to Old Trafford, but United have paused their pursuit. Brighton continue to demand a substantial fee, while the midfielder’s own recent injury has added another complication to negotiations.
The timing is particularly significant. Mount was forced off early during United’s 1-1 pre-season draw with Paris Saint-Germain in Gothenburg after speaking at length with Carrick and the medical staff. It is an unfortunate development given Mount’s encouraging pre-season form. Carrick had increasingly trusted him in a deeper midfield role alongside Andrey Santos, and his performances had reportedly prompted INEOS to consider whether a third central midfielder was even necessary.
Mount’s injury record has been a recurring concern since his arrival at Old Trafford, and another setback serves as a reminder that United cannot necessarily plan their midfield around him being available throughout the season. Their interest in Baleba is also far from new. United agreed personal terms with the Brighton midfielder last summer, only for the transfer to collapse over the Premier League club’s valuation. The Red Devils renewed their interest this year, but Brighton have remained unwilling to significantly lower their demands.
Baleba’s injury now gives United another reason to hesitate. The club have other midfielders on their radar, meaning the latest developments leave Carrick and INEOS with an important decision. They could wait for a clearer diagnosis on Mount before determining whether another signing is required, or decide that the squad needs greater protection regardless.
Tyler Adams Linked With Man United
Manchester United have also been linked with Bournemouth midfielder Tyler Adams as they continue to consider their options in the centre of the pitch. According to TEAMtalk, citing CaughtOffside, the 27-year-old United States international has emerged as a genuine candidate for a move to Old Trafford. His potential arrival would represent a more affordable alternative to some of United’s other midfield targets following Casemiro’s departure. The club are reportedly assessing a number of options, including Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton, Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali and Baleba.
With United also expected to strengthen at centre-back and left-back, while potentially adding another striker, a lower-cost midfield signing could become increasingly attractive. Adams is reportedly valued at around £30 million, a figure Bournemouth could be willing to consider. Liverpool and Chelsea are also said to be monitoring the American, meaning United may face competition if they decide to make an approach. The midfielder’s profile could appeal to Carrick given his defensive work, energy and ability to cover ground, particularly if United want greater physicality in the middle of the pitch.
Anderson, meanwhile, could prove considerably more difficult to acquire. The Forest midfielder is reportedly valued at more than £90 million and is also attracting interest from Manchester City. United therefore have several options but have yet to settle on their preferred target.
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