Manchester United are now leading the race to sign Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, with both Liverpool and Tottenham falling behind, according to TEAMtalk.
Baleba has become one of the most in-demand midfielders of late, with the tough-tackling midfielder yet another player signed by Brighton before attracting interest from top Premier League clubs like United, Liverpool and Tottenham.
The Seagulls have a production line of talent that seems to be never-ending, and Baleba is one the most highly valued players in their squad as we head towards the summer transfer window.
United are prioritising a move to sign a new midfielder in the summer, with Baleba among a host of names who have been linked with a move to Old Trafford in the last few months.
Man Utd Leading Tottenham and Liverpool in Race
baleba brighton
According to a report from TEAMtalk, Manchester United are winning the race to sign Brighton midfielder Baleba, with Tottenham and Liverpool both lagging behind.
The Red Devils have received a boost in their pursuit of the Cameroonian international, with the Seagulls softening their stance on allowing him to depart.
Despite previously demanding a fee in the region of £100m, his asking price has now been slashed to just £70m.
Baleba, described as 'absolutely exceptional' by Glenn Murray, is expected to head through the exit door in the summer, and it's believed that they understand that they will struggle to receive a fee of £100m like they were previously hoping for.
Baleba Has Dropped Off This Season
Carlos Baleba during a Brighton & Hove Albion pre-match warm-up
When United were showing an interest in signing Baleba last summer, it made sense that Brighton were demanding in the region of £100m.
The 22-year-old was coming off the back of a phenomenal season with the Seagulls, and given the price they sold Moises Caicedo to Chelsea for, they clearly felt he was in the same bracket.
This campaign, he's failed to hit the same heights, so Brighton have accepted that they may need to lower their demands.
It's still a significant fee that United would have to pay to secure his signature, but it could be a smart long-term investment given his age and potential.
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How Much is Baleba Actually Worth?
Carlos Baleba
GIVEMESPORT asked ChatGPT how much Brighton midfielder Baleba is actually worth in today's market, given the Seagulls' hefty price tags.
I’d estimate his current market value around £55m–£65m given age (21), Premier League experience and strong defensive output.
His pressing, interceptions and ability to operate as a lone No.6 boost his profile relative to typical midfielders.
He isn’t among the elite passers yet, which slightly caps the maximum fee clubs would pay now.
Brighton’s recent transfer pricing trends suggest they would likely ask ~£65m–£75m rather than sell at market tag.
If a club needed immediate midfield impact, I’d see his realistic transfer fee clearing ~£60m this summer.