Manchester United's chances of signing Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba may have improved after reports emerged that Brighton are targeting Aston Villa's Lamare Bogarde as a potential replacement. The Seagulls are said to be interested in the 21-year-old Villa defender, valued at over £25 million, which could pave the way for Baleba's departure.
Baleba, a Cameroon international, has long been linked with a move to Old Trafford. Last summer, United were quoted a fee in excess of £100 million but did not make a bid, instead focusing on forward and goalkeeping reinforcements. The club's midfield revamp is expected to be a priority in future windows, with Baleba remaining a reported target despite inconsistent form this season.
Brighton are reportedly open to selling Baleba if their valuation is met, and their interest in Bogarde—nephew of former Chelsea and Barcelona player Winston Bogarde—suggests they are planning for his exit. The Telegraph reported that the Seagulls could command a fee north of £100 million for the defensive midfielder, given his age and ability to disrupt play.
However, Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has expressed reservations about Baleba. Speaking to Sky Sports, Scholes said: 'Baleba is very young. Quality-wise, is he quite there? He's almost in a Caicedo type of way... Is that the type of player Manchester United need? I'm not sure.' Scholes suggested Adam Wharton or Elliot Anderson as alternatives.
The development could be timely for United, with Casemiro's contract expiring in 2026 and uncertainty over the futures of Kobbie Mainoo and Manuel Ugarte. Whether United will meet Brighton's asking price remains to be seen, but the potential signing of Bogarde by Brighton may increase the likelihood of Baleba's move to Old Trafford.
