Carlos Baleba has been linked with a move to Manchester United in recent weeks, and Brighton and Hove Albion have now made a decision over their midfielder's future
Isaac Seelochan Senior Sports Journalist and Will Schofield Senior Sports Reporter
16:40, 31 Aug 2025
Manchester United target Carlos Baleba
Manchester United could still land Carlos Baleba
Brighton and Hove Albion have reached a verdict on Carlos Baleba's future amid speculation linking him with a switch to Manchester United.
The Athletic had previously claimed that United are eyeing Baleba as they seek to strengthen their midfield ranks before the summer transfer window shuts. Reports suggested the Red Devils had approached Brighton through intermediaries to explore possible terms for a deal.
According to the Manchester Evening News United are willing to postpone any pursuit of the midfielder until next year, with senior figures acknowledging a move is presently improbable.
With three years left on his deal, Baleba is regarded as one of the brightest young prospects in his role and has risen to the challenge of replacing Moises Caicedo in Brighton's engine room.
Nevertheless, Brighton are said to be determined to keep hold of the Cameroon international for at least another season and have reportedly placed a valuation of over £100million on his head.
Carlos Baleba continues to be linked with a move to Manchester United this summer
Carlos Baleba continues to be linked with a move to Manchester United this summer(Image: Getty Images)
Brighton's unwavering position has been underlined by their choice to include him in their starting XI for Sunday afternoon's home encounter against Manchester City.
Seagulls manager Fabian Hurzeler has maintained in the lead-up to Sunday's fixture that Baleba will continue as a Brighton player, reports the Manchester Evening News.
When questioned about his certainty that Baleba would remain, Hurzeler declared at a press conference: "Yes. If there is a number more than 100, I would even say more than 100. I am confident."
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Ruben Amorim is nearing the close of his first summer transfer window at Old Trafford, and he's certainly not been shy about opening the chequebook.
Over £200m has been invested in new signings such as Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko.
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Last season, Amorim struggled to find success with an ageing midfield duo of Casemiro and Christian Eriksen. He'll be hoping to secure a fresh midfield talent before Monday's deadline.