Manchester United fans got to watch midfield transfer targets Sandro Tonali and Carlos Baleba face each other as Brighton played Newcastle United in the Premier League.
There are as many as 24 midfield targets on Manchester United’s radar heading into the summer transfer window, but Ineos appear to want Premier League-proven talent.
Carlos Baleba and Sandro Tonali both feature high up on United’s shopping list, and they went toe-to-toe as Brighton lost 3-1 to Newcastle United in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon.
Baleba has struggled this season and admits he has been impacted by United’s interest, but his performances have improved in recent weeks.
What is the MAXIMUM you would pay for Carlos Baleba this summer?
After a tough season, how much should Manchester United be risking?
Sandro Tonali vs Carlos Baleba stats analysis
Both Tonali and Baleba started for their respective clubs at St James’ Park on Saturday. Tonali played the full 90 minutes while Baleba was taken off with 10 minutes remaining.
Interestingly, as per SofaScore, both players earned a 7/10 rating for their performance in the match.
| Sandro Tonali | Match stats | Carlos Baleba |
| 90 | Minutes played | 80 |
| 45 | Touches | 53 |
| 77% (23/30) | Passes completed | 89% (32/36) |
| 11 | Possessions lost | 8 |
| 7 | Defensive contributions | 7 |
| 3/4 | Duels won | 7/12 |
| 0 | Shots attempted | 2 |
Despite playing fewer minutes, it is Baleba who dominates most statistical areas with more touches, passes and defensive actions.
Additionally, Baleba took two shots to Tonali’s zero, and the Brighton midfielder struck the crossbar from range with one of his efforts.
How do you really feel about Man United’s Sandro Tonali interest?
Is he who we need in midfield?🇮🇹
Carlos Baleba is hitting form just ahead of transfer window
There is no denying that Baleba suffered a poor start to the season, and as a result it seemed that his name dropped down the pecking order of United’s transfer shortlist.
But United are still interested in Baleba and could return to Brighton with an offer this summer.
His recent performances have been much more like the 2024/25 version of the midfielder that caught United’s attention.
The timing of Baleba’s resurgence is ideal given that the transfer window opens next month. A strong end to the season could be the difference between him calling Old Trafford home next season.
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox
