Carlos Baleba Open to Manchester United Move, But Brighton Stand Firm

Carlos Baleba might move to Manchester United after the club talked to his agents. However, Brighton & Hove Albion want to keep him this summer.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Manchester United spoke directly with Carlos Baleba‘s team to strengthen their midfield. Agreeing on personal terms with Baleba, 21, shouldn’t be hard. But Brighton say they don’t want to sell him. The club’s leaders claim United haven’t officially contacted them. Reports suggest a deal might exceed £87 million. Baleba joined Brighton from Lille in 2023 and is open to talks. But Brighton sees him as a key player, making it tough for other clubs to negotiate.

BALEBA’S IMPACT AT BRIGHTON AND UNITED’S POSITION

Baleba shined for Brighton in the 2024/25 Premier League season. He became a regular starter and excelled as a ball-winning midfielder. Brighton ended 11th in the league, not qualifying for Europe but staying mid-table. Baleba played in 32 league games, scoring 4 goals and making 5 assists, showing his potential. Meanwhile, Manchester United finished 15th in the Premier League and lost in the Europa League final to Tottenham Hotspur last season, which has put them under pressure to rebuild. Under this scenario, United has signed Diego Leon, Matheus Cunha, and Bryan Mbeumo this summer, spending a total of £128.5 million on forwards alone. Baleba is a top target for them but Brighton’s resistance and a high price make it challenging.

WHAT COMES NEXT?

Manchester United might try again for Baleba before the transfer window shuts as they also pursue other top targets like Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig. Brighton claim there’s been no official offer and plan to keep Baleba unless they get an extraordinary bid. Both teams will focus on their starting games of the new Premier League season. Brighton plays Fulham, aiming to rise from mid-table, while Manchester United seeks a strong start against Arsenal to improve from last season. The decision on Baleba’s future could affect both teams as they strive to do better than last year.