- Man Utd hold long-term interest in Carlos Baleba
- Brighton’s demands proving too much
- Wise call from INEOS
Manchester United appeared likely to return for Carlos Baleba this summer after failing with an approach last year. The Cameroonian had been on the Reds’ radar, but Brighton & Hove Albion rebuffed an enquiry.
According to SullyTalkz, United still rate Baleba “very highly internally” and feel he has ” a lot of potential.” The 22-year-old has earned comparisons to Moises Caicedo given his meteoric rise at the Amex Stadium.
Baleba has two years left on his contract with Brighton. While the player seems open to an Old Trafford switch, the problems lie in the finances involved in a potential deal.
Man Utd not paying Baleba asking price
The report claims that there is a valuation gap between what United believe Baleba is worth and what Brighton value him at. That is the main stumbling block preventing the club from pursuing the Cameroon international.
INEOS are also wary of overpaying for a player who struggled during the season. He came off the boil for a large portion of the campaign, perhaps distracted by speculation linking him with the Reds.
At the moment, it doesn’t appear likely that Baleba will be one of Michael Carrick’s summer signings. Laurie Whitwell previously hinted that United’s interest had cooled, with various reports suggesting Brighton are demanding around £100m.
Baleba appeared 35 times across competitions, coming in and out of Fabian Hurzeler’s starting lineup. He’s been with the Seagulls since August 2023, when he arrived from French football outfit LOSC Lille.
A good call
United are making the right decision by resisting the urge to try and swoop for Baleba as Casemiro’s immediate replacement. If the club wanted him dearly, they’d be prepared to fork out the hefty fee that Brighton wants.
There are so many names on INEOS’ wishlist that they can afford to cool interest in the Cameroonian. He’s not worth the astronomical amount quoted, especially given his displays this season.
United are set to confirm the signing of Ederson from Atalanta in a £38m deal. The Brazilian is by no means a marquee name, but he ticks plenty of boxes for Carrick and is a decent start to the window.
