Manchester United fans have been provided a bleak injury update on Carlos Baleba.
The Cameroonian, who joined for an initial £65 million, was considered as the successor to Casemiro, who departed in the summer.
After having chased him for over a year, Red Devils fans were naturally delighted with the acquisition, despite the fact that the 22-year-old had picked up an injury in pre-season.
It was expected that the former Brighton & Hove Albion talisman would be back in training this month before making the matchday squad for the Premier League clash against Fulham on 20 September.
Carlos Baleba injury update
However, The Manchester Evening News has now reported that the Cameroon international is yet to rejoin training at Carrington.
There is very little chance of the defensive midfielder regaining fitness before the three-week international break.
This effectively means United fans will have to wait until mid-October to see their latest midfield acquisition in action.
“Carlos Baleba has been a visible presence at Old Trafford since his £70million move from Brighton, but Manchester United fans might be forced to wait a little longer until they can see him in action.
“Baleba joined the club while recovering from an ankle ligament injury and although he has been at the games against Ipswich Town and Sabah, he hasn’t yet returned to training at Carrington.
Carrick has to keep faith in Mainoo-Tielemans
“The 22-year-old picked up the injury early in pre-season with the Seagulls and the chances of a debut before the first international break of the campaign are now almost impossible.
“United face Brighton in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday and travel to Fulham in the Premier League on Sunday, but Baleba is unlikely to be fit for either game.”
Michael Carrick will have to continue placing his trust in Youri Tielemans, who has started hitting his stride.
Andrey Santos is another option, with the Brazilian impressing alongside Mason Mount in pre-season. Kobbie Mainoo remains the guaranteed starter in the 20-time English league champions’ engine room.
Feature image Dan Mullan via Getty Images
