Manchester United target Carlos Baleba in action for Brighton.
Manchester United target Carlos Baleba in action for Brighton.
Manchester United have been heavily linked with this summer, but a deal for the Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder may have to wait until next year.
Brighton are determined to keep hold of the 21-year-old - who they value at over £100million. Consequently, The Manchester Evening News reported on Friday that if they have to.
Meanwhile, understands that Baleba remains keen on a move to , but he's willing to be patient and wait until next year if necessary. The player's willingness to join should give the Reds an edge over other clubs next summer.
With that said, The Manchester Evening News has taken a look at the latest surrounding the youngster;
Brighton decision
Baleba was named in Brighton's first starting line-up of the season.
The 21-year-old featured in 34 of 38 Premier League fixtures for the Seagulls last season. It's understood Baleba is valued at £100million at the very least as they would hope to repeat the business that saw Moises Caicedo move to two summers ago.
No-go this summer?
The Manchester Evening News reports that, although United are interested, a deal for the Cameroonian is unlikely to be completed before the transfer window closes on September 1.
After spending nearly £200million, on a new attacking trio of Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha, United appear willing to wait until next year to pursue a move.
New stance
Speaking on his Fabrizio Romano said: "Brighton closed the doors to the exit of Baleba this summer. Manchester United will keep Carlos Baleba on their list - Man Utd will maintain that name in internal conversations.
"If it's not going to happen this summer, Man Utd will still consider Carlos Baleba as their target for 2026, I can guarantee that. Man Utd love the player and really appreciate how he was keen on the move even in a difficult moment for United."
Hurzeler comments
Speaking before Brighton's match with Fulham, the Seagulls boss said: "Very, very, very confident [he will stay]. It's just my belief. I didn't see any change in him.
"He only changed his hair, that was the only change he made in the last two weeks! But, overall, he seems to be in a really good place. He's enjoying it with his teammates. He's enjoying being a Brighton player. He's very grateful to have the progress he made in the last season. I didn't see any change."
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