Manchester United fans have another reason to watch the club's midfield rebuild closely, with Wayne Rooney backing Carlos Baleba to make a major difference at Old Trafford.

The former United striker believes the Cameroon international can bring the aggression, energy and ball-carrying ability the team needs.

Rooney praised Baleba on the Stick to United with Wayne Rooney podcast as the midfielder closes in on a move from Brighton in a deal worth up to £70 million.

“I really like him, Baleba, I think he’s a really good signing,” Rooney said. “He covers the ground really well, he’s aggressive, he takes the ball, and is what we need. He’s a very good player who will improve the team massively.”

Baleba's arrival would add another option to a midfield that has already welcomed Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos this summer. Both started United's 2–0 Premier League defeat at newly promoted Hull on Saturday.

Rooney also dismissed suggestions that Baleba disappeared after Manchester United's previous attempt to sign him fell through, instead focusing on what the 22-year-old could offer the team now.

The reported £70m package consists of £65m guaranteed plus £5m in potential add-ons, according to Sky Sports. The transfer was still being finalised at the time of the reports.

United fans now have another question to answer: can Baleba become the midfield presence Rooney believes the team has been missing?