Manchester United has left their pursuit of Carlos Baleba after Brighton indicated that it would take a range of approximately £ 120 million to sell it this summer
Carlos Baleba is willing to continue to insist on a move to Manchester United after they have chosen not to follow a deal this summer. Baleba, 21, emerged as the best target of the Red Devils in the midst of their search for a defensive midfielder.
The conversations started earlier this month with Brighton via intermediaries who worked on behalf of United. The two clubs then immediately contacted, because Brighton made it clear that they are not going to sell the Cameroonian.
Baleba's side United inquired that it would take a bid of around £ 120 million – more than for which Brighton Moises Caicedo sold to Chelsea in 2023 – for them to consider his sale. As reported by athletics, it goes beyond what Red Devils would like to pay this summer.
The development reflects the comments from Fabian Hurzeler on Friday, while the manager of Brighton stated that he was 'whole, very, very confident' about Baleba stay. To the question why, Hurzeler replied: “Only my conviction.”
United has already welcomed three signing sessions for a combined £ 207.5 million – Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko. All three are from forwards and the priority of Ruben Amorim is now in midfield, in particular the number 6 roll.
The Red Devils can choose to be patient and return to the negotiating table next year or now sign an alternative. Personal conditions would not have been a problem with Baleba, because he is willing to go to the move, even if this means waiting.
However, there is no suggestion that the ex-Lille-astrlet is unhappy in Brighton. At Old Trafford there is an acceptance that Baleba is still developing after two seasons in the Premier League.
The 21-year-old will hope to stimulate his stock in the course of the new season and Hurzeler is enthusiastic to keep working with him. 'I have not seen any change [in Baleba]”The Seagulls boss added against Fulham before Saturday's season opener.
Does Manchester United have to wait to sign Carlos Baleba in 2026? Say in the commentary part.
“He only changed his hair, so I think that was the only change he has made in the past two weeks. But in general he seems to be in a really good place. He enjoys it with his teammates, he enjoys being a Brighton player.
“He is very grateful that he had the process he had last season, so I didn't see any big change. And he is an option to start for tomorrow.”