Manchester United’s summer transfer plans have taken a dramatic twist as the club has reportedly cooled its interest in Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba due to the Seagulls’ staggering £100 million-plus valuation. The 20-year-old Cameroonian talent, who has been a standout in the Premier League since his arrival, remains a top target for Erik ten Hag, but United’s hierarchy is said to be wary of overpaying.
Baleba’s powerful displays in midfield and his ability to control the tempo of games have not gone unnoticed. However, Brighton’s track record of securing record fees for their players – following the likes of Moisés Caicedo and Alexis Mac Allister – has made negotiations far from straightforward. Sources suggest United had initially hoped to strike a deal closer to £65–70 million, but Brighton’s firm stance has created a significant impasse.
With the transfer window ticking down, United are now said to be exploring alternative midfield options in Europe. Ten Hag is understood to still admire Baleba’s qualities, but the club is determined not to repeat costly mistakes from previous transfer windows. The Red Devils’ recruitment team is reportedly keeping tabs on two other young midfielders in the Bundesliga and Ligue 1 as contingency plans.
For Brighton, holding onto Baleba would be a major statement of intent ahead of another competitive season. Manager Roberto De Zerbi views him as a central figure in his tactical plans and is believed to be in no rush to cash in. Unless United significantly increase their bid, Baleba looks set to stay on the south coast – at least for now.
This development has left United fans divided – some urging the club to meet Brighton’s demands for a long-term solution in midfield, while others insist fiscal discipline is crucial. Either way, the transfer saga surrounding Carlos Baleba promises to remain one of the most closely watched stories of the summer window.
