Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba has addressed transfer speculation linking him with Manchester United, with reports suggesting the Red Devils could make a fresh approach
Kieran King Sports Writer and Neil Docking
14:05, 15 Dec 2025
Manchester United target Carlos Baleba
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Manchester United target Carlos Baleba
Carlos Baleba has addressed suggestions that transfer speculation linking him with Manchester United has impacted his performances this season.
The Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder was reportedly targeted for a whopping £100million switch to Old Trafford during the summer transfer window, after his standout displays for Fabian Hurzeler's side in 2024/25. However, Ruben Amorim's Premier League giants ultimately chose not to pursue the deal and Baleba stayed put at the Amex Stadium.
Since the transfer window shut, Cameroon international Baleba has appeared in 15 fixtures for the Seagulls. While he's been a regular starter for Brighton, the 21-year-old's form hasn't quite matched the standards of previous campaigns, reports the Express.
Carlos Baleba was linked with a summer transfer to Manchester United
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Carlos Baleba was linked with a summer transfer to Manchester United(Image: Getty Images)
This has prompted some observers, including Brighton supporters, to wonder whether the transfer talk has negatively influenced his recent showings.
Speaking to these worries, Baleba told Sky Sports on Sunday: "I don't think it affected me negatively, but I had a lot of pressure on me. When I started this season, I wanted to show the same performances as last season.
"Every day I try to work hard and get back to my level. Did I put too much pressure on myself? Yes, I think so, but I think it's good.
"It's good for me, because now I have to get through this slightly stressful period, get back on the horse and continue working hard."
Elliott Anderson of Nottingham Forest battles with Carlos Baleba of Brighton during the Emirates FA Cup Quarter Final match between Brighton and Hove Albion and Nottingham Forest at the American Express Community Stadium in Brighton and Hove, on March 29, 2025.
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Elliott Anderson of Nottingham Forest battles with Carlos Baleba of Brighton(Image: NurPhoto, NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Despite an inconsistent campaign, Baleba is reportedly back on United's wishlist for a January move as they look to strengthen their midfield options. The Red Devils were eager to bolster this area in the summer but failed to do so, leaving Ruben Amorim with the same options.
Brighton, initially hesitant to let Baleba go and valuing him at £100m, have reportedly softened their stance since the summer. Recent reports suggest they might now consider offers around £74.3m.
In a promising turn of events for United, it's understood that Baleba would favour a move to Old Trafford over Bayern Munich. The German champions are also reportedly interested in the Cameroonian star due to uncertainties over Leon Goretzka's future.
Adam Wharton is one of Crystal Palace's most-prized assets and has also been linked with a move to Manchester United
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Adam Wharton is one of Crystal Palace's most-prized assets and has also been linked with a move to Manchester United(Image: Getty Images)
Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton is another player on United's radar, although he's also being chased by several Premier League rivals.
Elliot Anderson has also been pinpointed as a potential target for Amorim's side, but Nottingham Forest are expected to resist any attempts to sign the England international in January.
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If United fail to secure the signatures of one or two midfielders in the coming month, it's predicted to impact Kobbie Mainoo's chances of a January exit.
The young player is keen to leave United for more game time, with Napoli among those interested in signing him, although the Red Devils are reluctant to sell and would prefer a loan deal.
On the pitch, United's next match sees them welcoming Bournemouth on Monday night. A win over the Cherries at Old Trafford will see the Reds ascend to fifth place in the Premier League table.