Manchester United return to Premier League action on Sunday at Old Trafford against Arsenal, hoping to bounce back from a disappointing 2024/25 campaign.
The Red Devils endured a frustrating season in which they finished 15th, struggling to assert control in midfield against sides such as Brighton, Bournemouth, and Crystal Palace.
This summer has already seen United bring in Brian Mbuemo, Matheus Cunha, Pedro León, and most notably Benjamin Šeško. However, manager Rúben Amorim admitted after a pre-season clash with Leeds that the team remained light in midfield.
That has led to speculation that United will continue to target a strong, athletic midfielder capable of complementing or covering the likes of Kobbie Mainoo, Casemiro, and Manuel Ugarte.
One player high on their list is Brighton’s rising star Carlos Baleba. The 21-year-old has adapted seamlessly to the Premier League, impressing with his athleticism, strength, and progressive passing.
Known for his ability to cut out danger, carry the ball forward, and strike from distance, highlighted by his stoppage-time winner against West Ham, Baleba has drawn comparisons to N’Golo Kanté and Patrick Vieira.
Brighton, who successfully replaced Moisés Caicedo and Alexis Mac Allister with the young midfielder, continue to demonstrate their reputation for unearthing top talent.
However, Brighton are reluctant to let Baleba go. According to TalkSport’s Alex Crook, the Seagulls have no intention of selling this season. Fabrizio Romano has reported that United made official contact with Brighton yesterday, but the approach was swiftly rebuffed.
David Ornstein has also indicated that United may pull back from pursuing the deal, with Brighton valuing Baleba at over £100 million, far beyond what United are prepared to spend after already investing around £200 million this summer.
To balance their books and comply with PSR regulations, United are also considering the departures of Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho, and Antony.
Such sales could pave the way for further reinforcements, and sources suggest that Baleba remains open to a move to Old Trafford should an agreement be reached. Personal terms are not expected to be an issue, and Crook believes Brighton could be swayed if United intensify their pursuit.
For now, Baleba remains focused on Brighton’s Premier League opener at home to Fulham on Saturday. But the midfielder’s admiration for United, combined with the club’s midfield struggles, means this potential transfer saga may not yet be over.
