Manchester United have been handed a significant boost in their pursuit of Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, with the Seagulls reportedly dropping their asking price for the Cameroon international. The Red Devils have long admired the 22-year-old but were previously put off by Brighton's £100 million valuation.
However, Baleba's form has dipped this season, leading Brighton to reconsider their stance. According to reports, the south coast club have already begun scouting potential replacements, including Ghanaian midfielder Caleb Yirenkyi of Danish side Nordsaelland. Baleba remains under contract at the Amex Stadium until 2028.
Brighton CEO Paul Barber confirmed in January that no approach had been made by United. 'No call from Old Trafford. No call from anyone connected to Manchester United,' Barber said. 'We have no plans or desire to sell Carlos in this window, or in any future window, but we know he's a talented player.'
Baleba is one of several midfield targets for United, who are expected to offload Casemiro at the end of his contract. Other options include Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson, as well as Newcastle duo Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes.
Former United defender Rio Ferdinand has voiced his preference for Anderson, describing him as the 'right type of player and character'. Ferdinand said: 'He's all-action, can cover ground, is dynamic, robust and strong. He seems to be ticking those boxes.'
