Image source: Carlos Baleba/Instagram
Manchester United are nearing a deal to sign Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba in a $124million transfer.
According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, United are “closing in” on Baleba following their offer for the 22-year-old Cameroon international.
The reported offer, however, is felt to be below Brighton’s valuation with “amicable talks” continuing amid United’s long-standing interest in Baleba.
United explored a transfer for Baleba last season but a big-money move did not materialise. Now, the Cameroonian – who is recovering from an ankle injury – is moving towards a transfer to Old Trafford, where the Red Devils have been rebuilding their midfield heading into 2026-27.
Michael Carrick’s United have splashed the cash to sign Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos from Aston Villa and Chelsea respectively. Those two deals cost the Manchester club $163million following the departure of Casemiro.
But United have been targeting a third midfield recruit – one that is box-to-box and can cover the pitch ahead of their Premier League opener against Hull City, while also preparing for their UEFA Champions League return.
Should United complete a deal for Baleba, it might not be the end of their transfer business as they look to bolster the left-back position.
Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall has been a name mentioned throughout the off-season, with United looking to provide competition for England veteran Luke Shaw.
However, Football.London claims United’s interest in Arsenal gun Myles Lewis-Skelly has increased over the past week.
Amid the Baleba news, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano also said: “This is absolutely not over. United are expected to do more. United are moving on different targets.
“United keep looking at left-back and we have to see what’s gonna happen with striker if (Joshua) Zirkzee leaves.”
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