Manchester United are ready to bid for Carlos Baleba. After missing out on Mateus Fernandes, the Red Devils have made Brighton’s 22-year-old Cameroon midfielder their next big target, according to Give Me Sport. And they’re not the only ones shopping mid-tournament: Arsenal want England defender Ezri Konsa and are readying £60m for Bruno Guimaraes, while Mason Greenwood could be Madrid-bound. Who said the World Cup would put the transfer market on pause?
Man Utd Ready to Bid for Brighton’s Carlos Baleba
Manchester United are ready to make a bid for Carlos Baleba, Brighton’s 22-year-old Cameroon midfielder, after missing out on Sporting’s Mateus Fernandes, per Give Me Sport. Baleba has been on United’s radar for over a year, and the club now appears ready to act.
Here’s the problem: Brighton don’t do cheap. The Seagulls banked a British-record fee for Moises Caicedo in 2023 and will demand a premium for another elite young midfielder. Baleba’s blend of power, ball-carrying and defensive bite is exactly what United’s midfield has lacked. Expect a nine-figure conversation.
Arsenal Eye England’s Ezri Konsa and a £60m Bruno Guimaraes Deal
Arsenal are keen on Aston Villa favourite Ezri Konsa and remain determined to sign Newcastle’s Bruno Guimaraes, preparing a bid in the belief that a £60m package can still land the 28-year-old Brazilian, according to The Sun.
Konsa is the intriguing one for England fans. The Villa defender has grown into one of the Premier League’s most reliable centre-backs, and a move to the Emirates would be a serious statement. As for Guimaraes? Newcastle will fight tooth and nail to keep their captain. £60m feels light for a player of his standing.
Greenwood to Atletico Madrid? The Julian Alvarez Domino Effect
Atletico Madrid have identified former Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood, now at Marseille, as a replacement for Julian Alvarez, who is wanted by Barcelona, reports Sport in Spain. The 24-year-old Englishman has rebuilt his career in Ligue 1.
It’s a classic transfer domino: Barcelona push for Alvarez, Atletico scramble for a replacement, and Marseille brace for the fallout. One bid in Catalonia could reshape three squads before the new season kicks off.
What Does This Mean for England at World Cup 2026?
Transfer speculation landing mid-tournament is a test of focus, and Ezri Konsa is the England name in the spotlight. History shows top players handle it: a strong World Cup only drives the price up, and agents know it.
For Premier League fans, this window is shaping up to be a blockbuster — United rebuilding their midfield, Arsenal strengthening their spine, and English talent in demand across Europe. Follow our England coverage and World Cup 2026 predictions for the latest throughout the tournament.
FAQ
Are Man Utd signing Carlos Baleba?
Nothing is agreed yet. According to Give Me Sport, Manchester United are ready to make a bid for the 22-year-old Brighton midfielder after missing out on Mateus Fernandes, but Brighton are famously tough negotiators.
How much are Arsenal offering for Bruno Guimaraes?
The Sun reports Arsenal are preparing a bid believing a £60m package can still convince Newcastle to sell the 28-year-old Brazilian midfielder.
Why do Arsenal want Ezri Konsa?
Arsenal see the Aston Villa and England centre-back as ideal defensive reinforcement. Konsa has become one of the Premier League’s most consistent defenders in recent seasons.
Is Mason Greenwood really joining Atletico Madrid?
Spanish outlet Sport reports Atletico have identified the 24-year-old Marseille forward as a replacement for Julian Alvarez — but the move depends on Alvarez joining Barcelona first.
Can transfers be completed during the 2026 World Cup?
Yes. The summer window runs alongside the tournament, so clubs can negotiate and complete deals while players are away at World Cup 2026.
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