Manchester United are expected to remain active in the transfer market even if they complete the signing of Carlos Baleba, with Fabrizio Romano revealing two areas Michael Carrick could still strengthen.
United are closing in on the Brighton midfielder after talks accelerated dramatically on Wednesday.
However, Baleba will not necessarily represent the final arrival at Old Trafford.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano said United’s transfer business is “absolutely not over”, with the club continuing to work on several possibilities.
Left-back remains an active priority, while another striker could also be pursued if Joshua Zirkzee leaves before the window closes.
Man Utd still working on two positions after Carlos Baleba
The update provides a clearer picture of what could happen once the Baleba deal is completed.
ReadManUtd reported on Wednesday evening that United are close to a full agreement for the Cameroon international, with a five-year contract ready and preparations being made for the next stages of the transfer.
That would complete an extensive midfield rebuild following the earlier arrivals of Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos.
Attention can then shift elsewhere.
United have already started assessing several left-back possibilities. ReadManUtd revealed earlier on Wednesday that discussions have taken place with Jorge Salinas’ representatives, while David Raum, Lewis Hall and Myles Lewis-Skelly have also featured in the club’s search.
Romano’s latest update confirms that work is expected to continue even if Baleba arrives.
Striker is more complicated.
United are not currently expected to add another centre-forward while Zirkzee remains at Old Trafford, but his situation has begun to attract interest.
ReadManUtd reported that Napoli have made an enquiry for Zirkzee, although the Serie A champions need to make an attacking sale before advancing.
Ivan Toney and Jean-Philippe Mateta have previously emerged as experienced options United could consider if Zirkzee departs.
Baleba therefore appears unlikely to close United’s window.
Carrick could yet receive a new left-back and, depending on outgoing business, another striker before the September 1 deadline.
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