Manchester United are reportedly setting their sights on Brighton & Hove Albion's dynamic midfielder Carlos Baleba as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season. The Red Devils, under the guidance of Erik ten Hag, are keen to add depth and quality to their midfield, and the 20-year-old Cameroonian has emerged as a potential target.
Baleba, who joined Brighton from Lille last summer, has impressed with his energy, technical ability, and composure in the heart of the pitch. Despite being relatively new to the Premier League, his performances have caught the attention of several top clubs, with United now leading the chase.
Why Baleba?
The young midfielder fits the profile of players Ten Hag typically favours—versatile, hard-working, and capable of contributing both defensively and offensively. With United likely to offload some midfielders this summer, Baleba could be a shrewd long-term investment.
Brighton's Stance
Brighton, known for their shrewd transfer dealings, are unlikely to let Baleba leave on the cheap. The Seagulls have a reputation for extracting maximum value for their players, and any deal would likely require a significant fee. However, United's financial muscle could prove decisive if they formalise their interest.
What This Means for United
If the move materialises, Baleba would provide much-needed competition for places in United's midfield, potentially partnering with the likes of Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes. His arrival could also allow Ten Hag to rotate his squad more effectively, especially with European football on the horizon.
As the transfer window heats up, this is one story to keep an eye on—will United make their move, or will Brighton hold firm?
