Manchester United are closing in on a £65 million deal for Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, a move that could significantly strengthen their midfield.

Baleba, 22, has long been admired by United and is seen as the type of midfielder the club needs: strong, aggressive, athletic and capable of winning the ball and driving forward. United are reportedly offering £60 million upfront, with another £5 million in add-ons.

But there is a concern. Baleba is currently recovering from an ankle ligament injury suffered during pre-season. The injury is not considered serious, but it could keep him out for the opening weeks of the campaign.

That makes the deal a calculated risk. United are not simply buying a player for what he has done recently. Baleba's form dipped last season, but his performances during the previous campaign showed the quality and potential that made him one of Europe's most sought-after young midfielders.

At £65 million, the deal is not cheap, especially for a player arriving injured. However, if United's medical checks confirm that the injury is minor and Baleba can return to his best level, he could prove to be exactly what their midfield has been missing.

The question is no longer whether Baleba has the talent. It is whether Manchester United can get the best version of him again.

If they can, £65 million could eventually look like very good business.