Manchester United have made no fresh contact with Brighton & Hove Albion over Carlos Baleba despite the midfielder remaining keen on an Old Trafford move.
United have tracked the Cameroon international for more than a year and previously held discussions over personal terms.
However, Fabrizio Romano has described the current situation as “a little bit cold”, with no approach or proposal submitted to Brighton during the summer window.
Baleba would reportedly be “super keen” to join Michael Carrick’s side if United decided to reopen negotiations.
The 22-year-old’s position has not been enough to move the deal forward, with United currently placing other midfield options higher on their shortlist.
United are looking elsewhere for their third midfielder
United have already added Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans as part of Carrick’s midfield rebuild.
A third arrival remains planned, but the club want a player who can cover ground and provide greater protection during defensive transitions.
Baleba possesses the power and ball-winning ability to fit that profile. His inconsistent 2025/26 campaign and Brighton’s valuation have complicated United’s interest.
Reports suggest Albion’s demands have dropped from around £100million to closer to £70m. United still appear unwilling to commit that level of money after spending heavily on Santos and Tielemans.
ReadManUtd previously examined how Brighton’s reduced valuation could reopen the door for a Baleba move.
Romano has since confirmed that no progress has followed. Baleba remains available as a possible option, but United do not currently view the deal as a priority.
Brighton are also under no immediate pressure to sell. Baleba has returned for pre-season training and remains under a long-term contract.
United could revisit the situation if other moves fail. For now, Carrick’s third midfield signing appears more likely to come from elsewhere.
