Brighton & Hove Albion have delivered a clear and public rebuttal to Manchester United's reported interest in their midfielder Carlos Baleba, stating there has been no contact and no intention to sell.
Barber's Blunt Transfer Update
Speaking to talkSPORT, Seagulls chief executive Paul Barber provided a definitive update on the future of the 21-year-old Cameroonian. He revealed there has been "no call from Old Trafford" or anyone connected to Manchester United regarding a potential transfer for Baleba this month.
Barber went further, making Brighton's stance unequivocal. "We have no plans or desire to sell Carlos in this window, or in any future window," he stated. While acknowledging Baleba's talent and future potential, Barber emphasised his immediate importance to the south coast club, adding they are looking forward to his return from the Africa Cup of Nations.
United's Midfield Search Continues
This firm stance from Brighton comes despite claims that Manchester United had explored the conditions of a deal for Baleba. The Red Devils, under manager Ruben Amorim, are known to be seeking midfield reinforcements as a top priority in their ongoing squad rebuild.
Baleba is understood to be on a shortlist of targets that also includes players like 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" and a "number one priority" for next summer.
Amorim's Focus on the Pitch
When questioned about Manchester United's January transfer plans on Friday, boss Ruben Amorim appeared to downplay expectations of significant activity. "The transfer window is not going to change," he said. "We have no conversations in this moment to have any change in the squad."
Instead, Amorim stressed that the focus remains on the team's performance on the pitch as they battle for a Champions League qualification spot in a tightly-packed Premier League table.
With Brighton taking a resolute position and United's manager suggesting a quiet window, a mid-season move for Carlos Baleba appears highly unlikely, pushing any potential speculation towards the summer.
