🚨 Fabrizio Romano: Manchester United Keep Carlos Baleba “VERY HIGH” on Their 2026 Target List as Amorim and Recruitment Team Admire the Midfielder
When Fabrizio Romano speaks, the footballing world listens. In his latest update regarding Manchester United’s long-term transfer plans, Romano has revealed that Carlos Baleba remains one of the names the club are deeply invested in for the future, with the 2026 window shaping up as a potential decisive moment. According to Romano, Manchester United maintain a “very good connection” with the midfielder, and while nothing has shifted in the immediate situation, the club’s management, new head coach Ruben Amorim, and the recruitment team are “in love” with the Lille player’s qualities.
This revelation underscores a recurring theme in Manchester United’s evolving transfer policy — a clear emphasis on younger, high-ceiling talents who could be moulded into world-class stars. Baleba, who has been drawing attention for his maturity, physicality, and technical ability in Ligue 1, fits the exact profile United are seeking as they look to reshape their midfield for the next era.
Who is Carlos Baleba?
The 20-year-old Cameroonian midfielder currently plays for Lille in Ligue 1, where he has quickly risen through the ranks since joining from the Cameroonian academy ranks. Known for his energy, ball-winning ability, and progressive play from deep, Baleba has often been compared to a younger version of Yves Bissouma, a player he actually replaced at Lille when the Malian moved to the Premier League.
Standing out for his box-to-box capabilities, Baleba brings both defensive steel and attacking initiative. He thrives on transitions, has an exceptional engine, and most importantly, demonstrates a level of composure rare for his age. For a club like Manchester United, still in the midst of balancing midfield options around Casemiro, Kobbie Mainoo, Mason Mount, and others, a player like Baleba represents both long-term security and tactical versatility.
Why 2026 is Significant for United’s Pursuit
Romano’s phrasing is deliberate. While Baleba is admired by Manchester United today, the club view him as a strategic target for 2026. By then, Casemiro will likely be out of the picture, Christian Eriksen may no longer be in the squad, and United’s midfield will revolve heavily around Kobbie Mainoo, Ugarte (if the transfer completes as planned), and new additions. Baleba’s profile perfectly complements that vision — a young midfielder entering his prime, with European experience and ready to take on a bigger stage.
The idea of United’s scouting and recruitment team “keeping his name VERY HIGH on the list” signals that Baleba is not simply being monitored as a secondary option. Rather, he is a priority candidate for the next cycle of recruitment, with United prepared to remain patient until the right timing and circumstances align.
Ruben Amorim’s Influence
Perhaps the most fascinating detail in Romano’s report is that Ruben Amorim himself is a major admirer of Baleba. Amorim, who joined Manchester United from Sporting Lisbon in 2024, has been vocal about his philosophy of working with young, dynamic players who are tactically flexible. His Sporting side often featured midfielders capable of playing multiple roles, pressing with intensity, and contributing to build-up phases.
Baleba matches this mold almost perfectly. Amorim sees him not only as a squad addition but as a potential centrepiece for the midfield in a few years. This is crucial because United’s recent history has often seen a disconnect between managers and recruitment strategies. By highlighting Amorim’s alignment with the recruitment team on Baleba, Romano is signaling a rare unity of vision at Old Trafford.
Current Situation – No Movement, Just Monitoring
Despite the glowing admiration, Romano makes it clear that there is no active move happening at this moment. Lille value Baleba highly, and with the player still developing, the French club are in no rush to sell. For Manchester United, this means staying in close contact, maintaining strong relations with his representatives, and ensuring that when the time comes, they are at the front of the queue.
This patient approach contrasts with United’s previous desperation-driven windows, where the club often overspent in last-minute deals. Instead, under INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s restructuring, United are taking a long-term view of squad building — targeting specific players and planning several years ahead.
Why Baleba is an Ideal Fit for United’s Long-Term Project
There are several reasons why Manchester United view Baleba as a priority:
- Age and Potential – At just 20 years old, Baleba has already shown the maturity to compete at a high level. By 2026, he could be approaching his peak years.
- Midfield Evolution – With Casemiro aging and Eriksen nearing the end of his cycle, United need a new-generation midfielder to complement Kobbie Mainoo and any future signings.
- Physical Profile – Baleba’s stamina, strength, and athleticism make him tailor-made for the Premier League.
- Amorim’s System – He fits the pressing, high-intensity football Amorim wants to instill at Old Trafford.
- Market Value Timing – Targeting him for 2026 might allow United to avoid inflated prices now and secure him once he has gained more experience.
United Fans’ Reaction
For Manchester United supporters, Romano’s update is both encouraging and frustrating. On one hand, it is refreshing to see the club adopting a proactive, structured strategy rather than scrambling in the market. On the other hand, the thought of waiting until 2026 for such a talent might test fans’ patience, especially given United’s urgent need for midfield reinforcements.
Yet, if INEOS and Amorim remain true to their philosophy, this careful planning could lay the groundwork for a sustainable resurgence at Old Trafford.
Conclusion – Baleba and the Future of United’s Midfield
While nothing immediate is expected to happen, the fact that Fabrizio Romano has highlighted Baleba as a “VERY HIGH” priority target for Manchester United speaks volumes about the club’s long-term vision. Amorim’s admiration for the player and the recruitment team’s alignment suggest that United have identified Baleba as a cornerstone for their 2026 midfield rebuild.
For now, the Red Devils will monitor his progress at Lille, maintain strong connections, and prepare for the moment when Baleba’s future comes into play. If they succeed, United could secure a midfielder capable of defining their next era — a player who brings dynamism, youth, and tactical intelligence to an evolving squad.
The message from Romano is clear: Carlos Baleba is not just another name on the list — he is the list.
