Liverpool are prepared to rival Manchester United and Tottenham in the race to sign Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, reports Caught Offside.

Baleba was heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford over the summer, though Brighton’s hefty asking price for the midfielder put United off the Cameroon international and the deal failed to materialise.

Baleba remains on Man Utd's wishlist

United have maintained an interest in the 22-year-old, who is currently with the Cameroon national team for the Africa Cup of Nations.

While a January move for the youngster is unlikely at this stage, United may yet return for Baleba in the summer.

Baleba is one of a number of midfielders on the club’s wishlist, which includes the likes of Adam Wharton and Elliot Anderson.

Liverpool and Spurs to rival Man Utd for midfielder

However, United would face competition from Premier League rivals Liverpool and Tottenham should Brighton's stance on the former Lille man soften.

While centre-back is the priority position for Liverpool this month, they are also considering a move for the midfielder in a bid to strengthen in the middle of the park.

Reds boss Arne Slot is able to call upon Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister and Curtis Jones at the base of his 4-2-3-1 setup.

With Wataru Endo’s advancing years, the defending Premier League champions may seek to add additional bodies in a key area.

Spurs, too, are keen to bolster in central midfield, which is viewed as a key area in need of investment this year.

Like United, Spurs hold an interest in Wharton, though the north London side find themselves down the pecking order in the race to sign the England international, who is wanted by a number of Premier League and European heavyweights.

Baleba set for AFCON start vs Mozambique

Baleba is expected to start for Cameroon in their AFCON last-16 meeting with Mozambique on Sunday night.

The Indomitable Lions are unbeaten in Morocco this winter having won two and drawn one of their three games so far.