MU in talks to complete midfielder transfer after making Baleba swap decision

Manchester United made it clear to Brighton that Toby Collyer was not available in any Carlos Baleba swap deal with the midfielder instead poised to go to West Brom on loan

Manchester United are close to sanctioning Toby Collyer's loan departure with the midfielder set to join West Brom temporarily after Brighton were told he was not going to be used in any deal for Carlos Baleba.

The Red Devils have made their interest in the Cameroon midfielder known but the Seagulls are wanting around £100million before they sanction his departure. Those sort of funds are unlikely to be available at Old Trafford given their summer spree.

It was suggested that United could use Collyer to lower Baleba's price tag, but according to Manchester Evening News, he will not be involved in any negotiations.

Instead the 21-year-old is set to join the Baggies as he looks to aid their Championship promotion push and his own personal development, reports the Athletic. The likes of Harvey Barnes have previously excelled after spending time on loan at the Hawthorns.

Several second tier clubs were keen on Collyer but West Brom, where Ryan Mason is now manager, look to have won the race, which puts pay to Brighton's hopes of re-signing the midfielder.

The United star was part of their pre-season trip to the United States and admitted he was ready to talk with club bosses over what was best for all parties. "I'll sit down with the manager and higher-ups and see what's the best solution for that. The best way for me to develop, whether it's stay here or go on loan," he said.

Collyer came through the ranks at Brighton before leaving in 2022 and those in Manchester were surprised when the chance to sign him came up. He was considered one of the best midfielders in his age group and United jumped at the chance to snap him up.

Collyer was born in Worthing, just 10 miles from Brighton, and was destined for a first-team spot at the Amex until he was released. Ruben Amorim's system in Manchester only allows for two midfielders to play - and one of those is likely to be captain and talisman Bruno Fernandes.

The central midfielder made 19 first-team appearances for United last season. His most memorable contribution came in January’s victory at Fulham when he cleared the ball off the line to help land a 1-0 win.