Brighton & Hove Albion have issued a definitive statement on the future of midfielder Carlos Baleba, directly addressing ongoing speculation linking him with a move to Manchester United.
Brighton's Firm Stance on Baleba's Future
Chief executive Paul Barrett has revealed that there has been no fresh contact from Manchester United regarding a potential deal for the 21-year-old. This comes despite reports that the Old Trafford club had explored the conditions of signing the player during the current January transfer window.
Speaking to talkSPORT, Barber was unequivocal: "No call from Old Trafford. No call from anyone connected to Manchester United." He went further to outline Brighton's long-term position, stating, "We have no plans or desire to sell Carlos in this window, or in any future window."
Barber did acknowledge Baleba's talent and future potential but emphasised his immediate importance to the Seagulls. "For us right now, he's an important player in the second half of the season, and we're looking forward to getting him back from AFCON," he added.
Manchester United's Midfield Search Continues
Manchester United's interest in Baleba is reported to have been ongoing since last summer. Under manager Ruben Amorim, midfield reinforcements are said to be the number one priority as he continues to rebuild the squad.
Baleba is not the only name on United's radar. The club is also understood to be monitoring other Premier League talents, including Newcastle United's Elliot Anderson and Crystal Palace star Adam Wharton.
Former United coach Rene Meulensteen has publicly advocated for a move for Wharton, describing him as the "perfect player" for the club. "I'm a big fan of Wharton; I think he should be the number one priority for United next summer," Meulensteen said, praising the player's passing range and forward-thinking play.
Amorim's Transfer Window Focus
When questioned about potential January business on Friday, Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim played down expectations of significant activity. "The transfer window is not going to change," he stated. "We have no conversations in this moment to have any change in the squad. There's a process, there's an idea that is going to continue."
Instead, Amorim stressed the importance of focusing on the team's immediate Premier League objectives, with United battling for a Champions League place. "We are near the places of the Champions League, but we are near also for like eight teams behind us so let's focus on the next game," he concluded.
With Brighton taking a firm public stance and United's manager suggesting a quiet window, a move for Carlos Baleba in January appears increasingly unlikely, pushing any potential transfer talk towards the summer at the earliest.
