Manchester United are preparing for a significant midfield reconstruction this summer with at least two new signings expected as Manuel Ugarte and Casemiro (34) head for the exit. According to Fabrizio Romano, United have maintained a verbal agreement on personal terms with Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba (22) since August 2025. Simultaneously, Marcus Rashford (28) faces an uncertain future as Barcelona attempt to renegotiate the €30m (£26.1m) buy option included in his current loan deal from Old Trafford.
Manchester United's midfield pivot
The overhaul at Carrington marks a shift under INEOS and sporting director Jason Wilcox toward high-energy profiles to complement Kobbie Mainoo. Romano, speaking on his latest transfer update, noted that both Manuel Ugarte and Casemiro are expected to depart, necessitating multiple arrivals. The long-standing interest in Baleba reflects this strategy, with the Cameroonian seen as a high-intensity solution that Brighton successfully retained last summer. While United insist on the full €30m fee for Rashford following his 25-goal contribution in Catalonia, Barcelona are reportedly hesitant to trigger the permanent clause. Failure to reach a club-to-club agreement could see the forward return to Manchester despite having already agreed personal terms for a stay at the Camp Nou.
Atletico Madrid move to secure Julian Alvarez
In Madrid, Atletico are working to protect forward Julian Alvarez (26) from mounting interest. Goal reports that Atleti are considering a new contract worth approximately €10m per season to deter suitors including Arsenal and Barcelona. Alvarez joined from Manchester City in 2024 for a package worth up to €95m (£81.8m) and remains the designated successor to the aging Robert Lewandowski (37) in Barca's long-term planning. However, Romano has clarified that no immediate movement is possible while Atletico prepare for a Champions League semi-final against Arsenal.
"I can guarantee that nothing will develop on the Julian Alvarez story in the next few days because Atletico Madrid are preparing for a Champions League semi-final,"Romano stated, dismissing rumours that the Argentine has already held talks with Hansi Flick.
Negotiations between United and Barcelona over Rashford's valuation are expected to intensify before the loan expiry in June.