Manchester United have suffered a significant setback in their pursuit of Brighton’s talented midfielder Carlos Baleba, with reports suggesting that the club’s prospects of securing his signature in the January transfer window are bleak.
Following a summer of vigorous activity, during which the Red Devils splashed out approximately £230 million on the likes of Senne Lammens, Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo, and Matheus Cunha, there remains a glaring gap in their central midfield options. United also orchestrated the departures of high-profile players such as Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, Alejandro Garnacho, Rasmus Hojlund, and Antony.
Despite their summer spending spree, United couldn’t finalise a blockbuster move for their primary midfield target, Baleba, due to Brighton’s hefty valuation, reportedly around £100 million. The Seagulls’ steep asking price proved unmanageable for United following their aggressive investment in bolstering their attack from the onset of the window.
Ruben Amorim’s squad continues to carry a vulnerability in the middle of the park, and there is anticipation that United will revisit Baleba in future transfer windows. However, as reported by Football Insider, the likelihood of Baleba joining United as early as January appears minimal.
The report suggests that the price tag Brighton are likely to set for Baleba remains prohibitive for United’s January considerations. It notes: “Sources say that the Seagulls are likely to slap a huge price tag on Baleba, which United wouldn’t be able to afford in January. Despite having little to no chance of securing Baleba in the winter window, United might see more success if they revisit negotiations next summer, particularly with the Cameroonian international’s contract at AMEX entering its final two years.”
Football journalist Fabrizio Romano adds context to the situation, mentioning that United were particularly impressed by Baleba’s openness to a move to Old Trafford over the summer, despite the absence of Champions League or European football for the club: “I’m not surprised Man United did not bolster their midfield in the summer transfer window. Man United will keep their interest alive into 2026 for Carlos Baleba. They were very pleased with his willingness to join them.”
While the January prospects appear dim, United may yet retain a long-term interest in bringing the promising midfielder to Manchester.
READ MORE ON MANCHESTER UNITED TRANSFERS: