The transfer window drama at Old Trafford has taken yet another explosive turn, with INEOS chiefs reportedly accelerating plans for a massive £130 million double swoop that could transform Manchester United’s squad before the deadline slams shut.
According to fresh reports, Carlos Baleba of Brighton and Gianluigi Donnarumma of Paris Saint-Germain are now the two top targets on United’s radar. Negotiations for both are understood to be progressing quickly, as Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS era gathers serious momentum in the market.
The Baleba Battle — Why United Are Confident
Brighton’s 20-year-old midfield powerhouse has attracted heavy Premier League interest, including from Manchester City. However, insiders claim Baleba has been told exactly why Old Trafford, not the Etihad, should be his next destination. The message? At United, he would be a central figure in Rúben Amorim’s rebuild — a guaranteed key role in the heart of midfield, rather than fighting for scraps in Pep Guardiola’s star-studded rotation.
INEOS believe Baleba’s energy, ball-winning ability, and box-to-box dynamism could give United’s midfield the perfect balance alongside Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo.
Donnarumma — The New No.1 in Waiting
Meanwhile, talks with PSG for Gianluigi Donnarumma have reached an advanced stage, with a €35m fee already reported to be close to agreement. United have made it clear they want the 26-year-old Italian as their long-term goalkeeper, with no interest in a loan deal. The towering shot-stopper is expected to sign a multi-year contract if all terms are finalised.
United’s Message to the Football World
This aggressive double pursuit sends a strong statement: INEOS are here to back Amorim with the firepower needed to restore United’s glory days. If both deals go through, United will have secured one of Europe’s most promising young midfielders and one of the best goalkeepers in world football — all in the same window.
Old Trafford is braced. The next few days could define the start of a new chapter for the Red Devils.
