(Photo via Fabrizio Romano on YouTube)
Carlos Baleba retains his desire to complete a move from Brighton and Hove Albion to Manchester United.
However, any potential deal has been put on ice for the foreseeable future after he sustained an ankle ligament injury, rendering him a doubt for the opening of 2026/2027.
Carlos Baleba: What’s the latest?
Fabrizio Romano shared an update on the Cameroonian’s situation on YouTube, saying: “United are not proceeding with the deal due to his new injury. This is a problem for them.
“The player has been pushing like crazy last summer to join, and again this summer to go to Man United.”
This time last year, the Red Devils had an approach for Baleba rebuffed by Brighton, who were firm in their stance that he was not for sale.
It was anticipated that a transfer would be on the cards this time around due to the Seagulls having more time to scour the market for a replacement, but he is now poised to stay put at the Amex following his untimely setback.
INEOS opt against Baleba pursuit
United hadn’t formally revived their interest in Baleba with another offer, although reports were strongly suggesting he was still on their shortlist as INEOS orchestrate a much-needed rebuild in the middle of the park.
"This guy has everything… he can go to any club" 🔥 The Super Sunday studio are full of praise for Carlos Baleba 🙌 pic.twitter.com/C7ehLS15m0
They have already missed out on key targets Elliot Anderson and Mateus Fernandes, so options are now running thin just two weeks before Carrick’s men kick off their Premier League campaign away to Hull City.
Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans have settled in in the aftermath of their quickfire arrivals, but Carrick is navigating his first full season without the experience of veteran Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte, who suffered a lengthy injury layoff while in action for Uruguay at the World Cup.
It remains to be seen where club chiefs will turn their attention next, as 22-year-old Baleba, hailed as ‘absolutely wonderful’ by the Match of the Day panel, is chalked off the list of feasible additions.
LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 31: Lewis Hall of England during the international friendly match between England and Japan at Wembley Stadium on March 31, 2026 in London, England
Manchester United players pose for a picture before kick-off vs Rosenborg.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 07: Michael Carrick, Manager of Manchester United, celebrates victory during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford on February 07, 2026 in Manchester, England.