Man Utd 'interested' in shock wildcard option if they fail to sign Carlos Baleba from Brighton

Manchester United are looking at an alternative midfield option if they cannot sign Carlos Baleba from Brighton and he'd be much cheaper.

Man United have shelled out over £200 million to acquire a new frontline this summer, having recruited Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko.

Ruben Amorim wants further signings ahead of the window slamming shut next month and has his eyes on new midfielder, with Christian Eriksen being let go earlier this summer.

Baleba is Amorim's No.1 choice and Man United are actively trying to do a deal as the Red Devils boss pushes for a midfielder to accelerate his team's rebuild.

Brighton, however, have slapped a whopping price tag on their star player's head, with Man United prepared to send a player the other way as they construct a payment package.

But if Man United fail to strike a deal with Brighton for Baleba, then Amorim appears to have another midfielder on his radar.

Manchester United could look elsewhere if they cannot sign Carlos Baleba. Image: Getty

According to a report from Spanish outlet Fichajes, Man United are interested in signing Athletic Bilbao's Mikel Jauregizar.

His performances in La Liga have alerted Man United, not to mention Liverpool, who are also keeping an eye on the 21-year-old.

Jauregizar would be a much cheaper option than Baleba despite being contracted until 2031.

Per the report, he has a profile that Amorim is looking for, with the Spaniard described as a technical, physical and hard-working player.

His 'versatility' and 'ability to cover large areas of the pitch' have made him an attractive proposition for the Old Trafford hierarchy.

Jauregizar is highly rated in Spain and is destined for a big move in the future.

Mikel Jauregizar has emerged as an alternative if Manchester United fail to land Carlos Baleba. Image: Getty

Jauregizar came through the ranks at Bilbao and made his senior debut in the 2023/24 campaign.

He made 48 appearances last season, including 34 league showings.

It remains to be seen whether Man United abandon their pursuit of Baleba and turn their attention to Jauregizar.