Brighton are keen to keep hold of Baleba, who is under contract until 2028 with the option of a further 12 months, and warned United it would take a fee around the £115 million ($156 million) Chelsea paid to sign Moisés Caicedo two years ago to get a deal for Baleba over the line.

Manchester United are prepared to look elsewhere to strengthen their midfield.

Morten Hjulmand could be a perfect player for United as he is more accustomed to Amorim's system during their time at Sporting.