Brighton Shut Door on Carlos Baleba Move to Manchester United

Carlos Baleba wanted to join Manchester United this summer, but Brighton refused all offers and blocked the transfer. United must now turn to other targets before the window closes.

MOVE BLOCKED BY BRIGHTON

Manchester United identified Carlos Baleba as a key midfield target this summer. The Cameroonian star has prospered on the south coast, impressing Expert Kevin Hatchard with his “seismic” impact on the Premier League. The Red Devils were confident the player’s head had been turned, with agreeing personal terms not expected to be an issue. Unfortunately for them, Brighton clung onto Baleba – valued at least £87 million, according to reports – with his contract tied tight until 2028 and included a potential further two-year extension clause. Boss Fabian Hürzeler confidently claimed his man was going nowhere, stating “Very, very, very confident. That’s just my belief” recently when quizzed in a press conference shortly before the window shut. Hürzeler also said: “I don’t feel if we need to sell or we need to sell a player now,” as confirmed by previous reports.

WHERE THIS LEAVES UNITED AND BALEBA

United’s favoured midfield target was seemingly identified months ago, with manager Rúben Amorim’s top pick clear before plunging into business in June. Baleba appeared a solid fit for Amorim’s preferred style of play; however, reports suggest United favour adept ball players over muscle. In Baleba, some would argue he could knit together all aspects of the team, with impressive passing accuracy and strong success in duels highlighted by WhoScored.com. However, with Brighton’s firm stance still in place, it appears United may have to look elsewhere at least temporarily. It was reported earlier in August that the club still harboured hopes of negotiating Wharton’s exit from Selhurst Park.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR THE CLUBS

United will need to wait at least six months before they can even consider approaching Baleba again. Instead, with west London outfit Crystal Palace also standing firm for Wharton, January moves for current options appear unlikely. Amorim’s only choice is to work with what he has – with an already bulging spend of over £390 million still seemingly climbing as they start the new campaign aiming to get back into European spots as soon as possible.