Manchester United Inquire About Brighton’s Carlos Baleba in Summer Transfer Window

Manchester United have initiated contact with Brighton & Hove Albion through intermediaries to explore the conditions of a potential transfer for 21-year-old Cameroonian midfielder Carlos Baleba, according to reports from The Athletic and Fabrizio Romano on August 6, 2025. Baleba, who joined Brighton from Lille in August 2023 for approximately £26 million ($34.5 million) with add-ons, has emerged as one of the Premier League’s most promising defensive midfielders, making 40 appearances last season, scoring four goals, and providing two assists.

Brighton, however, are reluctant to sell, with CEO Paul Barber denying direct contact from United and emphasizing their desire to retain Baleba, who is under contract until 2028 with an option to extend by a year. Reports suggest Brighton would demand over £100 million for the midfielder, reflecting his potential and comparisons to Moises Caicedo, whom they sold for a record fee. Posts on X indicate Baleba has not closed the door on a move, but a deal this summer is considered “very difficult” due to Brighton’s stance and United’s financial constraints after spending €160 million on Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and the impending signing of RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko for up to €90 million.

United’s interest, driven by manager Ruben Amorim’s need for a dynamic midfielder to fit his 3-4-3 system, comes as they face a midfield shortage with Casemiro aging, Toby Collyer potentially leaving on loan, and questions over Manuel Ugarte’s fit. To fund the transfer, United may need to sell players like Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho, or Antony. While Baleba’s camp has been approached and he’s reportedly open to discussions, Brighton’s high valuation and lack of urgency to sell make a transfer this window unlikely.