Troy Deeney has warned Manchester United that Real Madrid could hijack their move for Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba.

Despite being in a very difficult financial position, Manchester United have still forked out a fortune to reinforce their attack. They have added Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha. While the attack looks sorted, they are not done yet as they want more quality in the centre of the park.

The Red Devils are interested in acquiring the services of Carlos Baleba, who has only gone from strength to strength since joining Brighton in the summer of 2023. Not only has he established himself as a key figure in their team, but he is widely regarded as one of the best young defensive midfielders in the world.

Real Madrid could hijack United’s move for Baleba

While talking about United’s pursuit of the Brighton sensation on talkSPORT, former Watford legend Troy Deeney has warned the Red Devils about a potential hijack from Real Madrid.

He said via : “I think United have to get him [Baleba] this window or they don’t get him,”

“If he has another good season, I do think other teams with Real Madrid and the like will come in and go ‘Bosh, we’ll have him’.

“I think if Man U want him…if I’m [Ruben] Amorim I’m kind of bullish on that. ‘Get this deal done because then I can get you into Europe’.”

“If they can sign him [Baleba] he can move them up 10 spaces [from 15th to 5th]!”

Deeney believes if United fail to sign him this summer, they might not have the opportunity to try again. As another successful season with the Seagulls could result in serious interest from clubs like Real Madrid.

Los Blancos are in need of a new holding midfielder under Xabi Alonso, and they have the financial might to rival any club in the world. As a result, this summer could be the Red Devils’ final opportunity to sign the 21-year-old, who seems destined for greatness.

Deeney wants United to go all-out for Baleba

The former Watford forward feels Ruben Amorim has to be bullish on this one and has to push United to strike a deal before the transfer deadline. United have already made initial contact over a deal for the Brighton wonderkid, as he is considered a perfect fit for the Portuguese manager’s system.

He has a strong physical presence, is great at winning the ball back and has a great work rate. The Red Devils have already received a massive boost in their pursuit as the player is open to a move to Old Trafford.

While Brighton have no intentions to negotiate his departure this summer and values him at around £100 million, the player’s camp hasn’t closed the door on the Manchester-based giants.

If they manage to raise funds by offloading players that are surplus to requirements, they could look to strike a deal with the Seagulls. Deeney believes Baleba’s arrival could have a massive impact on their season; it could help them push for a European spot next season.