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Manchester United could find themselves overtaken by Tottenham Hotspur in the pursuit of Carlos Baleba, as Roberto De Zerbi eyes a reunion with the 22-year-old midfielder, according to a new report.

The Red Devils had made an attempt to sign Baleba last year when INEOS sought to provide then-Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim with a dynamic midfielder suited to his 3-4-2-1 formation, which requires intense work rate from the two central midfielders. However, Brighton & Hove Albion declined to enter negotiations for the Cameroon international, reportedly demanding a fee exceeding £100 million to consider a sale.

Baleba was understood to be unhappy with Brighton’s stance, having already agreed personal terms with United and viewing Old Trafford as his ‘dream’ destination. His performances this season have notably dipped, with many attributing the decline to his disappointment over the failed transfer.

Although Amorim was dismissed in January, United’s recruitment department has continued to monitor the former LOSC Lille player. Nevertheless, their valuation of him has fallen in line with his recent form.

Reports suggest that Baleba’s agreement with United still stands, and sources claim he would “jump at the move” if the opportunity re-emerges this summer. There were even discussions of potentially completing the signing before the World Cup begins next month.

However, it now appears that United are prioritising other targets, perhaps believing they can revive discussions later due to Baleba’s eagerness to play for them. Tottenham, though, are reportedly ready to challenge this assumption.

The Independent reports that the North London side are planning a “triple raid” on Brighton’s Amex Stadium at De Zerbi’s request, targeting Baleba, Bart Verbruggen, and Jan Paul Van Hecke.

De Zerbi, who was strongly linked with the Manchester United managerial position following Amorim’s sacking, managed Brighton for two years before moving to French club Marseille in Ligue 1.

It is believed that he has made reuniting with the trio one of his main transfer priorities this summer, though there is an “acceptance [Spurs] may not get all of those.”

The report adds that “Baleba is likely to prove the most difficult to secure, as Brighton are seeking over £100m, and Manchester United remain in contention.”

Should Brighton maintain their nine-figure valuation for the Cameroonian, Tottenham could find themselves with a clear opportunity, as United are unwilling to meet such a high price tag, even though Baleba’s attributes make him a strong potential partner for Kobbie Mainoo.

Manchester United are already in advanced negotiations to sign Atalanta’s energetic midfielder Ederson, while talks for Newcastle United star Sandro Tonali are also progressing.