Carlos Baleba: Brighton send clear transfer message to Man United ahead of summer window | OneFootball

Brighton and Hove Albion have reportedly delivered a stern message to Manchester United and other suitors of Carlos Baleba ahead of an expected summer scramble.

United want Baleba

Last summer, United spent the bulk of their transfer budget on bolstering their attacking department after a goal-shy 2024/25 season.

The club forked out north of £200m on the signings of Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko. The club also secured the services of goalkeeper Senne Lammens from Royal Antwerp on deadline day.

United explored a move for Baleba, having identified him as their top midfield target, but they pulled out of a transfer after learning Brighton’s prohibitive asking price. It’s understood that the Seagulls wanted in excess of £100m for the Cameroonian.

United are expected to rebuild their midfield in the upcoming window and they remain interested in Baleba, despite his form declining this term. Casemiro’s announcement that he will leave the club, combined with the uncertainty surrounding Manuel Ugarte’s future has only heightened United’s need for reinforcements in the middle of the park.

A report covered by The Peoples Person late last month relayed that United are confident of snapping up Baleba for a bargain fee.

However, according to TEAMtalk, Brighton have no intention of slashing their asking price for Baleba and still value him at £100m – a stance that United have been made aware of.

Baleba update

TEAMtalk claim, “Brighton & Hove Albion have made it crystal clear they will not entertain offers below £100million for Carlos Baleba, TEAMtalk understands, while sources have revealed the Red Devils could look instead to sign an alternative available for a fraction of the cost.”

Brighton are said to view Baleba as “one of the best in Europe for his age”, and as such, they will look to make as much money as possible from parting ways with him.

Crucially, the report indicates that United are Baleba’s preferred destination, a significant advantage that has placed him in good standing with the club’s recruitment staff.

In addition to United, Chelsea, Tottenham, Newcastle and Paris-Saint Germain are also keeping close tabs on Baleba’s situation.

TEAMtalk add, “Insiders say Brighton’s board and recruitment department have been consistent in their messaging to agents and potential buyers – the club will not be rushed into a sale and expect any deal to match their valuation.”

“From the player’s side, sources indicate Baleba is open to a move that advances his career, but any transfer will have to meet both his ambitions and Brighton’s price.”

Other midfielders on United’s wishlist include Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace), Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest) and Sandro Tonali (Newcastle).

Featured image Mike Hewitt via Getty Images

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