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News
- 2 hours ago
Man Utd want to sign 'best player in the world' from Chelsea
Suraj Radia
- 23 Oct 2025 21:16 BST
- 5 min read
News
Manchester United have identified a transfer target at Chelsea who was once dubbed the ‘best player in the world’ as Ruben Amorim pushes for a marquee January signing.
United spent more than €250 million on players in the summer but they are hoping to add a midfielder to their ranks after often finding themselves exposed in the middle of the park this season.
The Red Devils saw an approach for Carlos Baleba blocked by Brighton in the summer, while they also had interest in Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller and both players are said to feature again in United’s new six-man shortlist, according to talkSPORT.
Compared
Carlos Baleba
DM, M (C)
Brighton
Carlos Baleba
DM, M (C)
Brighton
VS
Angelo Stiller
DM, M (C)
VfB Stuttgart
Angelo Stiller
DM, M (C)
VfB Stuttgart
|
|
ETV |
|
| €50.5M - €61.7M | ETV Range | €42.5M - €51.9M |
| 21 years old (03 Jan, 2004) | Age | 24 years old (04 Apr, 2001) |
|
Cameroon
|
Nationality |
Germany
|
Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace is also among the club’s targets alongside Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson, although both players are unlikely to be sold by their respective clubs in January.
United are believed to have made a loan approach for Conor Gallagher during the summer but Atletico were only open to a permanent sale, although the England international could be the most feasible option for a mid-season move.
The final player on the shortlist is said to be Andrey Santos, who was described as the best player in the world by teammate Diego Moreira during his loan at Strasbourg, although Chelsea are believed to consider the youngster not for sale at any price.
United set to wait to sign top midfield targets
United are described as ‘open’ to signing two midfielders in 2026 as Amorim seeks more pace and athleticism for his squad, particularly with doubts over the long-term futures of Casemiro, Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes.
A midfielder is expected to be a priority for United in the winter but the majority of their top targets will not be available until the summer, with the likes of Anderson and Wharton unlikely to decide on their futures until after the World Cup.
Baleba is also thought to have held talks with Brighton where he outlined his commitment to the club after seemingly seeing United’s summer interest lead to his poor form to start the season.
Santos, meanwhile, is said to have been discussed initially during early talks in Chelsea’s signing of Alejandro Garnacho but the Blues have since rejected a lucrative approach from Saudi Arabia for the 21-year-old and are looking to keep hold of him.
West Ham are also
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