Manchester United are closing in on a deal for RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko, with a bid of around £65.3m plus £8.7m in add-ons already lodged. Newcastle United are also interested, but Sesko is believed to favour a move to Old Trafford.
With the Sesko deal progressing, United have turned their attention to strengthening midfield, identifying Brighton's Carlos Baleba as their top target. The 21-year-old has impressed since joining the Seagulls from Lille in 2023, and Aston Villa midfielder Amadou Onana, who played with Baleba at Lille, described him as a 'bully' who would 'bully the pros' in training.
United have made contact with Brighton, but face a tough task persuading them to sell. Brighton value Baleba at £100m given he has three years left on his contract, while United value him closer to £70m. Brighton chief executive Paul Barber has played down the speculation, stating the club does not want to sell its best players.
United's pursuit of Baleba may require player departures to fund the move, following a summer spending spree. Brighton are planning for the upcoming campaign with Baleba and prefer to sell in 2026, making a deal this summer unlikely unless the player pushes for a move.
