Manchester United have practically signed CarlosBaleba, but recruiting an injured player has raised many eyebrows.
The Cameroonian has been a popular figure among MUFC directors since last year. However, a deal didn’t materialise last summer due to Brighton’s hefty valuation (over £100 million).
Moreover, Baleba’s recent injury was thought to be the final straw that ended the 22-year-old’s hopes of joining the Red Devils.
Nevertheless, the player’s knock may have incidentally had a positive impact, with the Seagulls agreeing to lower the price tag.
Carlos Baleba won’t make Man United until October?
Last week, David Onstein stunned the Man Utd fanbase by revealing that their club is in advanced negotiations with Brighton for Baleba.
On Sunday, several medical and signed his contract, with the club set to make the official announcement on Monday
Following the shocking 0-2 defeat in Hull on the opening day of the season, the United faithful are eager to see Baleba on the pitch as soon as possible, as Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos both struggled on their competitive debuts.
Nevertheless, the supporters will have to be patient, as the Brighton star is currently unavailable.
According to Sky Sports News journalist Danyal Khan, the midfielder could be back in the coming weeks, but his debut could be delayed until October, when the campaign resumes after the first international break.
“Seeing a few questions on Baleba’s fitness/date of return. Understand he’s due to return around the middle of September, so around Man City/Fulham.
“Also a chance Baleba doesn’t play for #mufc until October with the three-week international break – would give him more than enough time to acclimatise depending on international duty and ready for a busy autumn schedule with CL/cup competitions.”
Man Utd must not rush Baleba into action
Even though Michael Carrick could be tempted to field his new player as soon as possible, taking the risk might not be worth the reward.
After all, Baleba’s most important attribute is his imposing physical presence, so if he’s not fully fit, he won’t be able to deliver the desired impact.
Therefore, the Man Utd technical staff would be wise to give him a few extra weeks so he could adjust to his new surroundings, understand his role in the tactical system, and slowly regain his optimal athletic condition.
Man Utd will host Spurs at Old Trafford on October 10, which should be the most realistic for the player’s debut.
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Source: sports.yahoo.com
