Baleba Tempts United, McGinn Caught in Newcastle Tug: Premier League Transfer Round-Up

Brighton Stand Firm on Baleba, While Aston Villa Braces for Another Bid for McGinn

Manchester United’s transfer team might have bagged Benjamin Šeško, but there’s no break for the restless. With the striker’s arrival nearly wrapped up, United’s gaze has shifted to the south coast — specifically Brighton, where Carlos Baleba has emerged as their next midfield target.

But Brighton? They’re not in the mood to deal.

The Cameroonian engine room presence is still seen as key to Roberto De Zerbi’s evolving setup, and prying him loose won’t be simple — or cheap. The rumour mill is spinning, though, and United appear ready to test Brighton’s resolve.

United Want Legs in Midfield — And Baleba Has Plenty

Let’s face it, Manchester United’s midfield hasn’t exactly been bursting with energy lately.

Carlos Baleba, still just 20, fits the bill for what Erik ten Hag — or perhaps Ruben Amorim, should things shift — wants in the middle: physicality, mobility, and sharp passing under pressure.

There’s just one problem.

Brighton don’t sell easily. At least, not unless you pay up. Think Caicedo. Think Cucurella. Think Mac Allister. The pattern is clear — top dollar or walk away.

Right now, Baleba is seen as untouchable. But in football, “untouchable” usually just means “needs a bigger cheque.”

Grealish on the Move? Everton Interested — But Hesitant

Across the city, Pep Guardiola’s planning a trim.

Jack Grealish’s name is quietly being mentioned in exit conversations. Not because he’s bad — far from it — but because his role just doesn’t seem to exist anymore in this City setup.

Everton have reportedly made contact with Manchester City over a possible season-long loan.

It makes some sense. Grealish gets games. Everton get flair. But there’s a snag.

The winger’s wages are eye-watering, and Everton — deep in financial gymnastics mode — can’t afford to carry that burden in full.

There’s still a chance of compromise. But right now, it’s like two people reaching for the same handshake but standing on different floors.

Newcastle’s McGinn Obsession May Be Short-Lived

Newcastle United’s midfield wishlist this summer has looked more like a dartboard than a strategy.

They’ve swung and missed. Repeatedly. Now, their sights are locked on John McGinn. The Aston Villa captain is gritty, vocal, and Premier League-tested — all things Eddie Howe loves.

Only problem? Villa still rate him highly. And he’s not exactly agitating for a move.

Still, Newcastle believe he might be prised away if they hit the right number. Whether they actually do that, though, is another story.

This wouldn’t be the first time McGinn’s name has surfaced in negotiations:

• Everton previously explored a move, but talks stalled fast.

• Villa, for now, aren’t picking up the phone unless there’s real money on the table.

Forest Can’t Get Hutchinson, Might Cash In on Jota Silva

Ipswich are digging their heels in.

Omari Hutchinson, 20, is highly rated by Kieran McKenna and viewed as central to Ipswich’s plans for the Premier League return. Nottingham Forest — not short of ambition — tried to change their minds with a £35 million offer.

No dice.

That’s after Brentford were already turned away earlier this summer. And Forest? They might now shift focus — not just away from Hutchinson, but toward raising funds of their own.

Here’s where it gets interesting.

Jota Silva, who joined Forest last year for £5.9 million, is attracting interest back in Portugal. Sporting want him. Forest want at least double their money. This could move quickly.

A Saudi Move? Not for Kovacic

Saudi clubs continue to call. Mateo Kovačić keeps letting it ring.

The 31-year-old Croatian midfielder has received offers from the Saudi Premier League — and not minor ones either. Big wages. Big bonuses. Bigger lifestyle perks.

Still, he’s holding firm.

Kovačić isn’t ready to leave the Premier League behind. Not yet. And according to those close to the player, he feels like there’s “unfinished business” at City.

There’s something refreshing about a player saying no to the easy money. Whether he’ll feel the same way come January is anyone’s guess.

Transfer Climate: Who’s Hot and Who’s Not?

Let’s break it down.

One-line rumour you shouldn’t ignore? Spurs keeping tabs on João Mário. It’s early days, but the Portuguese midfielder could yet become a London story.