The dream of Carlos Baleba joining Manchester United seems shattered, as Ratcliffe finds the price too high and refuses to sign him this summer. A move for Fulham's defensive midfielder is now more likely.

With the costs looking too steep, Manchester United will probably not bring in Bournemouth's Alex Scott or Brighton's Carlos Baleba this transfer window. This is despite the 22-year-old Cameroonian's lifelong dream of joining United and his multiple proactive approaches to the club.

Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed: "As far as I know, a year ago, in August 2025, Baleba was desperate to join Manchester United. He had already agreed personal terms with the club, and he always dreamed of being a United player. But whether to negotiate with Brighton again is entirely up to United."

After Casemiro left upon contract expiry and Ugarte suffered a season-ending injury, United plan to sign three new midfielders this summer. However, owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe currently has no intention of splashing out on a high-priced midfielder. The Red Devils have so far signed Andre Santos and Youri Tielemans, both for under £50 million, and the third signing may also fall in that price range rather than the £80 million bracket.

Ratcliffe would make exceptions, but only for players he particularly admires, such as Real Madrid's Aurelien Tchouameni, his dream midfield target. However, Baleba, who underperformed last season, clearly does not fall into this category.

UK media outlet TEAMtalk's transfer expert Graeme Bailey stated that the Manchester United transfer team, led by Jason Wilcox, is weighing several potential options based on Ratcliffe's criteria. If money were no object, United would simply meet the sellers' asking prices for their top targets, just like Tottenham or Manchester City.

However, Ratcliffe, who is planning to build a new stadium, is pursuing better value for money, given that the future venue will cost £2 billion, possibly more. Consequently, United's recruitment is inevitably affected, making it difficult to secure top-ranked targets.

Bailey explained: "What I'm hearing is that United want a player who can truly strengthen the midfield defensively. For example, the club could sign Baleba, as they appreciate his playing style. Although his performance last season was not up to par, scouts still believe he is a great fit for the Red Devils."

However, Brighton are not willing to significantly lower their price, and their valuation has essentially ended any realistic hope of the deal. "United value Baleba at around £50 million, especially given his inconsistent form last season. Brighton completely disagree with that," Bailey said. "Even before Elliott Anderson and Morgan Rogers broke the record for the most expensive British players, Brighton's asking price was well over £75 million, still close to £100 million. That immediately ruled him out of United's consideration."

United are not just looking to buy one more midfielder; Wilcox and the transfer department are also considering reinforcements in other positions. "Aside from midfield, United have a lot of work to do. Left-back remains an important position to strengthen, and the team also wants a versatile forward, though Rashford's situation and Joshua Zirkzee's future will significantly impact that."

Baleba's situation is very similar to that of Bournemouth's Scott. "United also appreciate Scott, but the fact that he rejected a new contract at Bournemouth does not make it easier to sign him," Bailey added. "The problem is Bournemouth's valuation this summer, which is far beyond what United considers reasonable."

United believe £60 million would be enough to sign Scott, but that is absolutely impossible—Chelsea's £64 million bid this week was directly rejected. The 'Cherries' are willing to sell the 22-year-old English midfielder for £75 million after next year, but this summer they need over £80 million because they have Europa League qualification and do not want to sell their key player.

Roma's French defensive midfielder Manu Kone has recently been a steady figure in Manchester United rumors. The 'Wolves' are asking for €60 million (£51 million), which is also higher than United's envisioned price. Bailey said: "Kone is another player United really like, and they have done extensive research on him in recent weeks. His asking price is around £50 million, maybe a bit lower, but even so, some inside Old Trafford are not convinced by that amount."

United have also been linked with Tchouameni and his Real Madrid teammate Eduardo Camavinga, but neither is willing to join. Bailey said: "Everyone knows Ratcliffe absolutely loves Tchouameni, but unfortunately this has always been more of a dream signing than a realistic option. Now someone has recommended Camavinga to them, and I will definitely keep a close eye on this deal. His price is not low, but he is undoubtedly a top player."

Perhaps the most achievable option is Fulham midfielder Sander Berge, who is valued at under £40 million and is already a target for INEOS. "They highly value experience, which is why Berge's name keeps coming up," a source said. "He has proven himself in the Premier League, and with a price tag possibly under £40 million, he showed again at the World Cup for Norway that he can elevate his game when surrounded by top players. United genuinely believe he can do the job."