Spurs set to rival Manchester United for Brighton Star | OneFootball

Carlos Baleba Transfer Race Intensifies as Spurs Challenge Man Utd

Tottenham are positioning themselves to take advantage of a developing situation surrounding Carlos Baleba, with senior figures sensing an opening in the battle to sign the Brighton midfielder. As the January window approaches, Spurs and Man Utd appear increasingly likely to shape the narrative around one of the Premier League’s most highly regarded young midfielders.

Rising Interest as Spurs Track Midfielder’s Form

Those close to the discussions, according to Caught Offside, suggest Spurs have identified Baleba as a significant opportunity, believing that shifting dynamics at Man Utd could allow them to move ahead in the race. The 21-year-old remains admired across the division despite an uneven spell this season, a period that began with United’s failed summer pursuit.

While the midfielder has experienced a slight dip in form, Tottenham’s recruitment team are said to be unfazed, assessing the situation as a temporary stall rather than a long-term concern. Their analytics department still ranks him among the most dynamic young midfielders in England, and there is confidence internally that a decisive move now could outmanoeuvre their rivals.

Brighton, however, have not shifted from their valuation. The south-coast club continue to hold firm at a €100m asking price, standing by their belief that Baleba’s ceiling remains exceptionally high. For Spurs, the challenge lies in pushing forward without allowing the price tag to distort their broader squad-building strategy.

Man Utd’s Position and Shifting Priorities

Man Utd, who have monitored Baleba for more than a year, have not ruled out reigniting their interest. Yet sources suggest their attention has broadened, with recruitment staff also assessing options such as Elliot Anderson and Joao Gomes. Whether these parallel evaluations delay a renewed push for Baleba could be pivotal.

United still view the Brighton midfielder as a player with major long-term potential, but they are weighing that against immediate needs elsewhere in the squad. Any hesitation creates the exact conditions Spurs hope to exploit.

Inside Old Trafford, the message remains consistent: the door is not closed. But equally, the club are mindful of financial constraints and the complexities of negotiating with Brighton, who seldom deviate from strategic valuations and have demonstrated a willingness to hold until their terms are met.

Baleba’s Standing Among Emerging Premier League Midfielders

The market for young, press-resistant midfielders is exceptionally active, with Baleba consistently ranked alongside Anderson, Gomes and Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton. All four have been scouted heavily this season, but insiders maintain that Baleba’s blend of athleticism, technical range and tactical discipline places him near the top of the list.

Even during a challenging period, Brighton remain steadfast in their belief that the Cameroonian will return to peak form. Clubs hoping for a discounted January deal have been firmly discouraged, with sources making clear that no cut-price sale will be entertained.

Should he rediscover his best level over the coming months, there is a strong argument that Baleba could justify the nine-figure fee Brighton are demanding. His age profile, Premier League experience and growth potential make him one of the most coveted midfield prospects currently available.

Brighton’s January Stance and Potential Leverage

Brighton are historically reluctant to part with major assets mid-season, but past windows have shown that the right circumstances can prompt movement. The club’s decision-makers have previously sanctioned high-value departures—such as Moisés Caicedo—when offered elite-level fees at opportune moments.

As it stands, their intention is to keep Baleba until at least the summer. Yet both Spurs and Man Utd understand that valuations and market timing can shift rapidly, particularly if competing clubs enter the conversation.

With Tottenham actively monitoring developments and United still considering their approach, the coming weeks could prove decisive. The midfielder’s future may well hinge on which club moves with the greatest clarity and commitment.