Manchester United go all in for Carlos Baleba, but Brighton demand a fortune! | OneFootball

Manchester will have to break the bank to sign the indomitable lion.

Carlos Baleba

Carlos Baleba has long been on Manchester United's radar. The Red Devils have recently stepped up their pursuit, but Brighton are demanding a staggering sum before letting their star go.

With the 2025 summer transfer window in full swing, Manchester United are working hard to bolster their midfield. In their sights: Carlos Baleba, the young Cameroonian midfielder from Brighton. According to several sources in England, United have made their move in recent days to try and lure the former Lille man to Old Trafford. At just 21, Baleba is already establishing himself as one of the Premier League's most promising midfielders. Powerful, technically gifted, hard-working, and tactically astute, he's won over Brighton's fans and caught the eye of Europe's elite clubs.

Since joining Brighton from LOSC in 2023, he has taken his game to another level. Rúben Amorim, Manchester United's new head coach, sees him as a strategic piece for his project, particularly because of his ability to win the ball, distribute from deep, and play under pressure. But prying Brighton's gem away will be no easy task. The South Coast club have no intention of selling—unless an extraordinary offer comes in. According to the latest reports, the Seagulls are demanding around €120 million just to start negotiations. Brighton know that several top European sides are tracking Baleba and are under no pressure to sell.

Despite the hefty price tag, Manchester United have not given up on signing Carlos Baleba. Talks are reportedly ongoing through intermediaries, even though no official bid has been tabled yet. The big question now: will the English giants dare to make a huge financial splash or turn to a more affordable alternative?