Manchester United will reportedly look to sign 21-year-old Cameroonian international Carlos Baleba from Brighton & Hove Albion in next summer’s transfer window.
According to a report by TEAMtalk, Carlos Baleba remains the subject of interest of Manchester United. The Red Devils failed to reinforce their midfield unit in the summer transfer window despite chasing the Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder for several weeks. While a summer move did not materialise, the Cameroonian international is still a target for Manchester United.
Brighton & Hove Albion will demand over £100 million to part ways with Baleba amid links with their fellow Premier League club. However, while Baleba will be Manchester United’s priority target, they will aim to sign another midfielder alongside the African midfielder, with Adam Wharton, Morten Hjulmand, and Ederson among the names on their wishlist.
The rise and rise of Carlos Baleba
Carlos Baleba has established himself as one of the best midfielders in the Premier League since joining Brighton & Hove Albion from LOSC Lille in August 2023. The 21-year-old endured some teething problems, but he has made significant progress in the last two years, becoming a mainstay in the middle of the park for his club and country.
The Cameroonian international has made nearly 100 appearances thus far for Brighton & Hove Albion while chipping in with four goals and two assists. Meanwhile, Baleba’s progress has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several European bigwigs. Manchester United will be among the prospective suitors vying for his signature in next summer’s transfer window.
Move across the Premier League on the cards?
Manchester United chased Carlos Baleba this past summer before a deal failed to materialise. The continued interest is understandable, as the Red Devils desperately need a dominant presence in the middle of the park. With Casemiro approaching the twilight of his career and Manuel Ugarte failing to make his mark, Baleba is the ideal profile for Manchester United.
While Brighton & Hove Albion blocked Baleba’s departure this past summer, Manchester United will return for his signature next year. However, the Douala native will not come cheap, as the Premier League club will demand over £100 million to part ways with him.
Meanwhile, Manchester United will chase another midfielder next summer, with Adam Wharton, Morten Hjulmand, and Ederson among the targets. This player will form a long-term partnership with Baleba in the middle of the park. It will be interesting to see if the struggling Premier League giants succeed in their endeavour.