Manchester United are actively investigating the possibility of a stunning January transfer for Brighton & Hove Albion's highly-rated midfielder Carlos Baleba, a player valued at a staggering £115 million.
Record-Breaking Fee Required for Midfield Target
According to reports from Daily Mail Sport and Sky Sports, the Old Trafford club has 'explored the conditions of a possible transfer in January' for the 21-year-old Cameroonian. Baleba was also a target for United during the summer window and remains a priority objective for strengthening their midfield.
However, Brighton's stance is reported to be unequivocal: Baleba is not for sale. The Seagulls informed United during initial enquiries in August that the young talent would only be allowed to leave for a British record fee of £115 million. This figure would eclipse the £89 million United paid for Paul Pogba in 2016.
The defensive midfielder's current contract runs until 2028, with an option for a further one-year extension, placing Brighton in a commanding negotiating position.
United's Broader Search and Financial Reality
United's midfield shortlist extends beyond Baleba. The club is also reportedly monitoring young talents such as Lille's Ayyoub Bouaddi and Olympiacos' Christos Mouzakitis. As previously reported, Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson tops their midfield wishlist, though a move for the English international is considered unlikely until the summer.
Other names under consideration include Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton, Wolves' Joao Gomes, and Bournemouth's Tyler Adams, who could be available for around £40 million.
Despite the ambitious links, a major signing in January appears improbable. Manager Rubén Amorim has stated the club does not intend to make any signings next month, suggesting any move for a player of Baleba's calibre is more likely to be prepared for the summer window.
Financial Constraints and PSR Considerations
United's ability to spend big is constrained by Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). Although the club is understood to be back within PSR limits following cost-cutting measures and layoffs instigated by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, which resulted in an operating profit of £13.3 million, significant outlays still require careful financial planning.
The club forecasts full-year revenues of £640-660 million. Player sales, including those of Alejandro Garnacho and Antony, along with the loan departures of Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, and Rasmus Hojlund, helped United boost income and reduce the wage bill by a total of £6.6 million to comply with regulations.
With the high-profile contracts of Casemiro, Harry Maguire, and Jadon Sancho expiring at the end of the season, and the potential departure of Marcus Rashford (which could save £325,000 per week), United could trim up to £1 million per week from their wage bill. This financial restructuring may be necessary before the club can commit to a substantial transfer fee for a marquee signing like Carlos Baleba.
