Whitwell Thurs morning update: Player hailed as ‘fantastic’ by Keane now a ‘genuine possibility’ for MUFC

The 22-year-old’s form has faltered this season – to the point his manager, Fabien Hurzeler, expressed that United’s summer approach may have been playing on the star’s mind.

Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

“For sure, when a young boy reads there is interest from Manchester United with a big, big offer, it might affect him deep, deep down,” said the Brighton head coach.

“That’s also part of the development to understand that when you play well, there comes a big offer, there comes a big club that wants to have him.”

In the closing stages of the summer window last year, United tested the Seagulls’ resolve for Baleba, with reports at the time suggesting he was fully open to making the switch.

However, he chose to honour his club’s request of staying at least another year, meaning the United faithful are expecting INEOS to revive their pursuit in the coming months.

United putting plans in place for midfield overhaul

Whitwell has revealed that Sir Jim Ratcliffe was in attendance at Carrington on Monday morning to start drawing up plans for the forthcoming window, especially as it’s now expected United will receive a healthy cash injection through Champions League qualification.

Space on the wage list will also be cleared up when three of the side’s highest earners depart; Casemiro and Jadon Sancho as free agents, as well as Marcus Rashford when he eventually completes a permanent move to Barcelona or another suitor.

More Stories / Latest News

Whitwell Thurs morning update: Player hailed as ‘fantastic’ by Keane now a ‘genuine possibility’ for MUFC

Apr 23 2026, 8:48

Club now considering whether to extend player’s contract after learning of fresh Man Utd interest

Apr 23 2026, 8:11

MUFC ‘running the rule’: Chief journo confirms INEOS have stepped up pursuit of PL target who won MOTM at Emirates

Apr 23 2026, 7:20