Manchester United were hoping to end the summer transfer window with a blockbuster move for Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba.
So far this summer, Manchester United have spent over £200m on four major signings, with three of those forming a new-look attack for Ruben Amorim.
Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo impressed against Arsenal, while Benjamin Sesko will hope to work his way into the starting lineup after being limited to a 25-minute cameo against the Gunners.
They join Diego Leon as the newcomers to the squad, but Amorim wants an “athletic” midfielder, so United held talks with Brighton over a possible deal for Carlos Baleba.
United were preparing a bid for Baleba, but it seems Ineos have backed down in their pursuit after hearing Brighton’s demands.
Carlos Baleba plays for Brighton in August 2025
Photo by Crystal Pix/MB Media/Getty Images
Man United’s risky plan to sign Carlos Baleba
Importantly, reports claim that Baleba is open to joining United, but Brighton would prefer not to sell their talented midfielder until next summer.
According to The Athletic, Brighton wanted United to match the £115 million fee that Chelsea had paid for Moises Caicedo to sign Baleba this summer.
While United could afford a £100m Baleba deal this summer, Brighton’s demands are well above what Ineos are willing to pay for the 21-year-old.
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Therefore, it seems United are laying the groundwork to return to Brighton for Baleba in 2026.
The report adds that United chiefs hope that by showing their intent a year early, it could work in their favour to secure Baleba’s signature next summer.
However, it adds that competition for Baleba is “expected to be fierce” next summer, meaning United are putting themselves at risk of missing out entirely.
Man United face midfield dilemma for 2025/26
If a big-money move for Baleba is being postponed until next summer, then Amorim is set to be left without the midfield signing he asked for.
Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes started at Old Trafford on Sunday, with Manuel Ugarte coming off the bench in the second half. Ideally, Amorim wants an extra option to bolster his midfield department this season.
So Ineos face a key dilemma – to sign a midfielder this window, or wait it out for Baleba?
READ MORE: Carlos Baleba sends cheeky message amid Man Utd transfer chase after playing in Brighton opener
United are considering Baleba alternatives, including potential moves for Adam Wharton or Morten Hjulmand.
Atalanta’s Ederson is also an option in midfield, but all three players would not arrive cheap.
With the goalkeeper situation on top as well, United are far from done in this summer window.