All the latest Manchester transfer news as Ruben Amorim looks to bolster his squad before the new Premier League season gets underway
Carlos Baleba has been linked with a move to Manchester United(Image: Photo by Neal Simpson/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images)
Carlos Baleba has recently emerged as a potential target for Manchester United as Ruben Amorim looks to bolster his options in the middle of the park. The Brighton midfielder has been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford, but it remains to be seen whether or not a transfer will materialise.
Baleba, whose contract at the Amex Stadium expires in June 2028, featured 34 times in the Premier League last season. Playing a key role in Fabian Hurzeler’s side, he helped the Seagulls enjoy remarkable wins over United, Manchester City, Chelsea and Liverpool.
The Cameroon international’s impressive performances haven’t gone under the radar, reportedly attracting interest from across Europe. So, with that being said, the Manchester Evening News has rounded up everything you need to know about Baleba and a potential transfer to United.
United prepare for new Baleba talks
According to Fabrizio Romano, United plan to begin new talks with Brighton for Baleba. The Reds reportedly believe that the midfielder is keen on a switch to Old Trafford, and personal terms aren’t thought to be an issue.
Brighton are aware of United interest
According to Sky Sports Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg, Brighton are aware that United want to sign Baleba, but they’re ‘totally relaxed’ and remain determined to fend off interest. The report claims that the Reds have held more talks with the midfielder’s agents ahead of a potential deal.
Brighton reject opening United offer
According to The Standard, Brighton have rejected a player-plus-cash offer, which included Toby Collyer, from United for Baleba. The report claimed that the Seagulls have insisted the midfielder is not for sale this summer, and they would only begin to consider his departure if they were to receive a bid worth more than the £115m that Chelsea paid for Moises Caicedo in 2023.
The MEN reported last week that including Worthing-born Collyer in a swap deal is not an option.
Hurzeler sends defiant message
Hurzeler has insisted he’s not worried about losing key players to ‘bigger clubs’ in the transfer window. Speaking on the ‘Monday Night Club‘ podcast by the BBC, the Brighton boss said: “No chance. I don’t feel fear.
“I’m not afraid of anything because the only thing we can do is be the best version we can be every day, like work as hard as we can. All the other things we can’t influence, so we really have to focus on us.
“For sure, we can’t spend the money like the big teams but one of our biggest values is togetherness. And if you stay together, if we try to push our limits and increase the boundaries, then I’m sure we can compete with the big teams.”
Brighton owner wants Baleba to stay
Speaking to supporters at a pre-season fan forum on Wednesday, Paul Barber commented on Baleba’s future at Brighton. As quoted by the BBC, the Seagulls chief executive said: “There’s always going to be interest in our players.
“Manchester United have not been in touch with me. Speculation is speculation. Carlos is a fantastic talent. We hope he’ll be here for years to come – but its subject to the dynamics of the football world, which isn’t always predictable.”
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