Manchester United have escalated their pursuit of Brighton & Hove Albion’s star midfielder Carlos Baleba, with transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirming that the Red Devils held talks with the player’s agents within the last 48 hours. The 21-year-old Cameroonian, valued at £100 million by Brighton, has reportedly had his head turned by United’s approach, fueling optimism at Old Trafford that a deal could be struck before the September 1 transfer deadline. Under Ruben Amorim’s leadership, United see Baleba as the perfect fit for their midfield revamp, with his dynamic, box-to-box style aligning seamlessly with the manager’s 3-4-2-1 system. The club’s recent signings of Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko underscore their ambition, but Baleba remains a top priority to bolster the squad.[](https://sports.yahoo.com/article/romano-contact-last-48h-man-081000610.html)
Baleba’s meteoric rise since joining Brighton from Lille for £23.2 million in 2023 has made him one of Europe’s most coveted talents. His 2024-25 season stats—three goals, one assist, and 2.8 tackles per 90 minutes in 18 Premier League starts—highlight his ability to dominate midfield battles while contributing offensively. Former Red Devil Danny Welbeck called him “unstoppable,” a sentiment echoed by Pep Guardiola, who is also an admirer, raising the specter of Manchester City entering the race amid Rodri’s injury concerns. Brighton’s reluctance to sell, coupled with a 20% sell-on clause owed to Lille, makes negotiations tricky, but United’s recent contact with Baleba’s camp suggests the player is open to the move, giving them an edge in what Romano describes as a “complicated deal.”[](https://www.givemesport.com/100m-star-keen-to-join-manchester-united-transfer-news-fabrizio-romano-exclusive/)
The Red Devils’ pursuit comes at a critical juncture, with Amorim keen to finalize his squad before their Premier League opener against Arsenal. United’s financial position, strengthened by potential sales of Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho, and Antony, could provide the funds needed to meet Brighton’s hefty valuation, though a swap deal involving players has not been ruled out. Journalist Dean Jones noted that Baleba’s interest in United has boosted the club’s confidence, despite Brighton chief executive Paul Barber’s public stance that no direct contact has been made. The Seagulls’ history of driving hard bargains, as seen with Moises Caicedo’s £115 million transfer to Chelsea, means United must act swiftly and decisively to secure their target.[](https://sports.yahoo.com/article/romano-contact-last-48h-man-081000610.html)[](https://strettynews.com/2025/08/09/manchester-united-carlos-baleba-brighton-and-hove-albion-transfer-premier-league/)
As the transfer window clock ticks down, Baleba’s potential move to Manchester United could define their season. His versatility, likened to a “modern midfielder” by Amorim, would complement Bruno Fernandes and provide defensive solidity alongside Kobbie Mainoo. However, Brighton’s insistence on keeping Baleba as a cornerstone of Fabian Hurzeler’s project, combined with interest from City and other clubs, poses significant hurdles. Posts on X reflect growing excitement among United fans, with some calling Baleba the “missing piece” for a title push, though others caution that Brighton’s high asking price could stall talks. For now, United’s persistent efforts signal their determination to land the £100 million star, setting the stage for a dramatic conclusion to the transfer saga.
