Manchester United Explore Quinten Timber Move as Brighton Stand Firm on Baleba Price
Manchester United are actively exploring midfield reinforcements ahead of the Premier League opener, with Feyenoord’s Quinten Timber emerging as a serious alternative to Brighton’s Carlos Baleba. With Brighton demanding over £100 million for the Cameroonian star, the Red Devils may shift focus to the more affordable and tactically suitable Dutch international.
Brighton’s Valuation of Baleba a Major Hurdle
Carlos Baleba has been at the top of United’s midfield wishlist this summer, but negotiations have stalled due to Brighton’s hefty price tag. Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano revealed that discussions with the player’s representatives are ongoing, yet a deal remains far from certain.
“United are still in contact with Baleba’s camp,” Romano said on his YouTube channel. “They’re trying to gauge Brighton’s demands, but so far the Seagulls aren’t budging.”
Brighton reportedly value Baleba at £100–120 million — a figure that has led Manchester United to reconsider their options.
Quinten Timber Considered a Better Tactical Fit
According to Football Transfers, United are now monitoring Quinten Timber closely. The Feyenoord midfielder, whose contract expires next year, presents a much more economical option. More importantly, several voices within the club believe Timber could be a better tactical fit for manager Ruben Amorim’s system than Baleba.
The 23-year-old Dutchman has impressed with his positional intelligence and ability to break lines — qualities that Amorim reportedly values highly.
“Timber is not just a backup plan,” the report states. “He’s seen as a genuine solution in a key area of the pitch.”
Man Utd’s Transfer Window: Attacking Firepower Already Arrived
United have already strengthened their attack this summer with the signings of Matheus Cunha, Benjamin Šeško, and Bryan Mbeumo. Paraguayan prospect Diego León has also joined the squad, adding depth for the future. However, the club remains focused on bringing in a defensive midfielder and a new goalkeeper before the window closes.
Opening Clash vs Arsenal Sparks Debate Among Legends
Manchester United kick off their Premier League campaign against Arsenal at Old Trafford on Sunday, and predictions are already flying. Club legends Gary Neville and Roy Keane clashed over the outcome during the Stick To Footballpodcast.
Neville backed a 2-1 win for United, saying: “I think it’s a tough opener for Arsenal — this could be United’s game.”
Keane disagreed: “Arsenal 2-1. United’s defense will struggle.”
Rooney Tips United for Top-Five Finish
Despite last season’s disappointing 15th-place finish, Wayne Rooney is optimistic about United’s trajectory under Amorim. Speaking in a recent interview, the club legend expressed belief in the ongoing rebuild.
“I still think they need one or two more signings,” Rooney admitted. “But I can see progress — I think they’ll sneak into the top five.”
Manchester United’s midfield hunt continues, with Quinten Timber now firmly on the radar as a cost-effective and tactically sound alternative to Carlos Baleba. As the transfer window heats up, the Red Devils must act decisively to reinforce their squad ahead of a challenging Premier League season.
