Man Utd want to sign England star instead of Baleba

Manchester United have shelved their plans to sign Carlos Baleba from Brighton & Hove Albion next year.

The Red Devils were hot on the trail of the Cameroonian star last summer, but they were put off by the asking price.

Brighton wanted in excess of £115 million for the young midfielder, and United had no plans of meeting the fee.

It is now claimed that United have moved on from Baleba, who has had a poor start to the campaign for the Seagulls.

The speculation has gone over his head and he has been unconvincing with his performances over the last few months.

Instead of Baleba, United are now weighing up an approach for the highly-rated Adam Wharton from Crystal Palace.

Wharton is widely expected to leave the Eagles next summer, but there is a possibility that he could depart in January too.

United could make an ambitious move for the Englishman if they find themselves mid-table heading into the New Year.