As Manchester City drew 2-all with Brighton at the Etihad a host of familiar flaws bubbled to the surface for Pep Guardiola’s side. Individual errors again proved to be costly at times for City. The lack of legs in midfield was also a constant issue during the match. This was especially prevalent when Fabian Hurzeler’s side broke with pace on Saturday. Looking at possible summer solutions to this there was one that stood out for City’s opponents on Saturday. Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba put in an energetic performance on Saturday. In the process, he showed why he could almost be the ideal summer signing for Manchester City.
Watching Carlos Baleba play at the Etihad, his ability to cover the ground stood out up against Manchester City’s midfield. It was an attribute that helped Brighton win the necessary duels to prosper against Pep Guardiola’s side. The Brighton midfielder was also strong in a challenge, and he did showcase his passing ability, and his runs into the box from midfield did pose Manchester City problems. Although he squandered a golden opportunity to win the game for Fabian Hurzeler’s side late on, the run that got Baleba into position for the shot was superb. Watching the 82nd minute move back Baleba left the Manchester City midfield in his wake. It was a brilliant run, and you add that attribute to Baleba’s all-around display, and you could see how Manchester City could benefit from moving for the Brighton midfielder in the summer.
Baleba vs Manchester City pic.twitter.com/QjrmXPav8x
— 𝐉𝐄𝐔𝐍𝐄 𝐁𝐀𝐍𝐋𝐈𝐄𝐔𝐒𝐀𝐑𝐃 🇳🇱 (@CompsJeune) March 15, 2025
Manchester City have an interest in signing Carlos Baleba but it would be an expensive move.
Danny Rust and Dean Jones have previously reported for GIVEMESPORT that Manchester City do have an interest in signing Carlos Baleba in the summer. Furthermore, they report that Liverpool also have an interest in signing Baleba. Lastly, Rust and Jones add that Brighton would likely demand a transfer fee of around £115 million to sell Baleba.
Brighton are renowned for being tough negotiators in the transfer market. They buy low and sell high, especially with young players. Carlos Baleba appears to be the next player who could leave the Seagulls for a sizable transfer fee. Watching at the Etihad on Saturday you do feel that Manchester City should seriously consider paying up for a midfielder they so desperately need. Baleba would add attributes Manchester City’s midfield are screaming out for and although he’d be expensive you’d hate to see Manchester City miss out on a player who could potentially add so much to Pep Guardiola’s squad.