Liverpool set to compete with Man United for premier league destroyer | OneFootball

Report: Man Utd face Liverpool competition for Brighton midfielder

Manchester United’s pursuit of Carlos Baleba has entered uncertain territory after reports suggested Liverpool are now monitoring the midfielder closely. According to TeamTalk, sources inside the game have indicated that the Merseyside club are keeping a watchful eye on Baleba’s progress, a development that could complicate United’s long-term planning under Ruben Amorim.

United had already made an attempt to secure the 21-year-old from Brighton during the summer but failed to agree terms. Amorim, who views midfield strengthening as a top priority, has continued to push for Baleba’s arrival as he looks to rebuild the team in his own image.

“Manchester United were the first club to make a move for Baleba in the summer and they still see him as a key target for their long-term rebuild under Amorim. There was intent behind that approach, wanting to show the player and club how serious they are,” Dean Jones told TeamTalk in his latest update.

Photo IMAGO

Amorim’s determination to secure Baleba

For Amorim, midfield is a crucial area of the pitch in his 3-4-3 system. Baleba’s athleticism and ability to break up play make him a natural fit for this structure. Despite a shaky start to the season where he was dropped from Brighton’s starting line-up against Bournemouth, Amorim remains convinced the Cameroon international can deliver.

Brighton’s stance, however, has been resolute. Baleba is under contract until 2028, with an option for a further year. That long-term security places the Seagulls in a powerful negotiating position. As TeamTalk highlighted, Brighton will point to the £115 million fee Chelsea paid for Moises Caicedo in 2023 as a benchmark, meaning any successful bid for Baleba could surpass £100 million.

Jones suggested that while United remain determined, Liverpool’s interest cannot be dismissed. “But the concern is that Liverpool’s admiration could turn into something more concrete. They’ve already shown this year they’re not afraid to splash out big money on the right player, and if they decided to push for Baleba, United would suddenly find themselves in an unwanted situation. No one wants to go head-to-head with Liverpool – on or off the pitch.”

Brighton’s negotiating strength

Brighton have earned a reputation for their stubbornness in transfer dealings. The sale of Caicedo underlined how they maximise value when top clubs come calling. Even in the face of a player’s poor form, they retain firm control over negotiations.

Baleba’s early-season struggles under Fabian Hurzeler have not dampened United’s or Liverpool’s enthusiasm. The midfielder produced three goals across 34 Premier League appearances last season, which showcased his growing influence. Both clubs believe the player can contribute immediately and still improve significantly in the years ahead.

Such factors strengthen Brighton’s hand. They can afford to wait, safe in the knowledge that demand from top clubs will keep the market buoyant. For United and Liverpool, the battle is not simply financial but strategic, with both clubs attempting to reinforce midfield areas that are critical to their future direction.

Photo IMAGO

Liverpool’s looming presence

Arne Slot’s Liverpool have been unafraid to spend big since his arrival, underlining their willingness to act decisively when the right profile of player becomes available. Should they formalise their interest in Baleba, United’s carefully laid plans risk being disrupted once again.

United supporters will remember how transfer targets in previous years have slipped away, often to rivals. Baleba represents more than just another young midfielder. For Amorim, he symbolises the commitment to a new philosophy and the urgency of keeping pace with a Liverpool side that has been aggressive in reshaping their squad.

At Old Trafford, patience is wearing thin. The message from Amorim’s side has been clear: Baleba remains the dream target. Whether that dream becomes reality depends on whether United can move swiftly enough to outmanoeuvre Brighton’s resistance and Liverpool’s shadow.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Manchester United perspective, this development will feel frustratingly familiar. Fans have seen the club identify top targets only for rivals to emerge and complicate negotiations. The fear is that history repeats itself if Liverpool escalate their interest.

Baleba’s profile is exactly what United need. His energy, defensive reading and capacity to carry the ball through midfield would help Amorim’s system flourish. He may not be in peak form right now, but supporters recognise that Brighton’s tough negotiating stance often brings out the best prices, and United cannot afford to let another priority signing slip away.

Liverpool’s involvement adds unwelcome pressure. With Arne Slot at the helm, the Merseyside club have been proactive in the market. They have the financial power to act swiftly, and if they truly want Baleba, United risk being forced into a bidding war. For fans, the hope is that the hierarchy backs Amorim properly and avoids another saga of delay and hesitation.

Ultimately, Baleba could be the anchor United have missed for years. If the club are serious about competing with Liverpool and Manchester City at the very top of the Premier League, then they must ensure Amorim gets his man.