‘I can tell you’: Romano addresses whether United will pursue ‘perfect’ PL star after Amorim ‘pushed’ for deal | OneFootball

Manchester United chiefs are said to view Carlos Baleba as the ‘perfect’ midfield signing, hence contacting him over a potential move over the summer.

The Red Devils held talks with Brighton and Hove Albion’s coveted starlet throughout the transfer window, but ultimately opted against making a formal bid – much to fans’ dismay.

United and Carlos Baleba: What’s INEOS’ stance?

(Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

Reports suggested Baleba himself was keen on making the switch to Old Trafford, although he wouldn’t have gone as far as forcing a transfer. As a result, he stayed put at the Amex, and United turned their attention elsewhere.

Supporters have since been contemplating whether the club would return once the window reopens in January – albeit it’s a far-fetched hope, given the fact Brighton didn’t even want to sell him before 2025/2026 got underway, never mind midway through the campaign.

That being said, the 21-year-old’s performances haven’t been up to the level he’s capable of this season.

Fabian Hurzeler went as far as admitting last month that he believed the interest from United had affected Baleba’s performances, based on the stature of the club and the fact that the youngster is only just getting to grips with the widespread attention he’s receiving.

Baleba’s transfer situation heading into 2026

United not following through with their approach may come back to bite them in the behind at the end of the season, though, as a host of other suitors are expected to be in the mix for the Cameroonian’s signature.

He is tied to the Seagulls until 2028, but a bid above £100 million is almost certain to force their hands into sanctioning Baleba’s exit.

“What I can tell you about Carlos Baleba is that, at the moment, Brighton insists on their position: not to sell him in the January transfer window,” said Fabrizio Romano on his YouTube channel last night.

“Brighton don’t want to sell him in January, and, for that to happen, [it] could only be a crazy proposal or maybe the player asking to go, but Brighton, even in that case, don’t want to sell him in January.

“In the summer, it might be different because Brighton believe Man United can be there. Then, let’s see what happens around Man United in the next months.

“Amorim was pushing a lot for Baleba in the summer transfer window. Amorim saw Baleba as a perfect target for Man United in terms of intensity in the midfield, skills, potential, and knowledge of the Premier League. He was considered a perfect signing by people at the club and by the manager.”

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Footage courtesy of Fabrizio Romano.