Brighton and Hove Albion chief executive and deputy chair Paul Barber has denied suggestions that Manchester United have contacted the club for Carlos Baleba. However, Barber has left the door ajar for potential movement before the summer transfer deadline amid intensifying links with an Old Trafford switch.
On Wednesday evening, multiple reports broke that United were in talks with Brighton over a potential deal for Baleba. However, there is said to be recognition across all parties that any transfer this summer would be highly complicated due to the Seagulls' unwillingness to sell and their subsequent asking price.
It's claimed that United made an approach via intermediaries to explore the conditions of a deal to add Baleba to Ruben Amorim's midfield.
But Barber has denied those claims, stressing Brighton's desire to keep hold of the 21-year-old midfielder for as long as possible.
"There is always going to be interest in our players. Manchester United have not been in touch with me," Barber explained at a fans' event.
"Speculation is speculation. Carlos is a fantastic talent; we hope he will be here for years to come, but it is subject to the dynamics of the football world, which is not always predictable."
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