There is an expectation that Manchester United will be making at least one midfield signing this summer. Brighton & Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba has been on the club’s radar over the past year.
An approach was made over a possible deal for Baleba during last summer’s transfer window. Brighton responded to United, informing them that the Cameroonian was not for sale.
David Ornstein of The Athletic claimed that Baleba was “keen” on a move to United. He stayed put at the Amex, but a new update on the Reds’ interest has shed light on the situation.
Man United unfazed by Baleba form
Baleba’s performances have come under scrutiny this season, and he has been substituted regularly by Fabian Hurzeler. The German coach has suggested that his form has been affected by speculation over his future.
Hurzeler told the media after a 1-0 loss to Aston Villa last week, “I think it’s normal for a young player when the media creates the noise around him.”
Ben Jacobs has delved into Manchester United’s current stance over the Cameroonian midfielder. He told The United Stand that the Reds are “not concerned” by his form and that his age is a key factor.
The club believes he has the quality to make a “greater impact” in their squad than he did at Brighton. With Casemiro set to depart when his contract expires in June, it seems likely that Baleba will be targeted as his replacement.
Baleba has made 25 appearances across competitions this season. He earned plaudits during the 2024-25 campaign, and many drew comparisons with former Brighton man Moises Caicedo, who left the Seagulls for Chelsea in an £115m move in August 2023.
Brighton yet to name their price
All eyes will be on how much Brighton asks for Baleba, given their not for sale response to Manchester United’s initial enquiry. The Cameroon international’s form could play a role in the Premier League club’s valuation come this summer.
Jacobs claimed that there is no set price and that the East Sussex outfit is keeping their cards close to its chest regarding a potential fee. There have previously been suggestions that Baleba will cost around £100m althouh this hasn’t been confirmed.
The Red Devils will have to get their chequebook out this summer to deal with Casemiro’s departure. The 33-year-old Brazilian has been crucial this season alongside Kobbie Mainoo, who looks set to extend his stay at the Theatre of Dreams.
Baleba one of three midfield targets
There is a chance that Manchester United prioritise signing two new central midfielders. Casemiro is on his way out, and Manuel Ugarte might not be far behind him.
The Uruguayan midfielder has struggled to impress since joining the Reds from Paris Saint-Germain for £42m in August 2024. The 24-year-old’s ball-playing abilities are a concern and could lead to a summer sale.
United have been linked with two of the Premier League’s most highly-regarded midfield talents. Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson is on INEOS’ shortlist, as is Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton.
Jacobs explained the club’s thinking regarding a midfield overhaul:
“About two months ago there were 8–12 names under discussion, but now it feels like Manchester United have narrowed the list to Elliot Anderson, Carlos Baleba, Adam Wharton, and possibly Angelo Stiller and Sandro Tonali.”
He added, “Other options could still emerge, but if United were to land their ideal midfield pairing, it would likely be two from that group. That said, they could miss out and need to turn to alternative targets.”
Anderson and Wharton are tipped to be on the plane with England for this summer’s World Cup. The midfield duo have starred for their respective teams, but will likely be just as expensive as Baleba.
