Manchester United's hierarchy are reportedly growing in confidence that they will succeed in a major summer pursuit of Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba, with a significant overhaul of the engine room planned at Old Trafford.
United's Confidence Grows for Prized Midfield Target
The Red Devils have long held an admiration for the Cameroon international, who was a primary target before the 2025/26 campaign began. According to reports, the club's belief that a deal can be struck in the upcoming transfer window is now strengthening.
Brighton famously held firm against United's interest last summer, placing a valuation in excess of £100 million on the player. The Seagulls' stance was informed by the £115 million fee they received from Chelsea for Moises Caicedo, setting a high benchmark for their prized assets.
Despite public statements from the Amex Stadium that the 22-year-old is not for sale, United have continued to monitor his situation closely. Their optimism is said to be partly fueled by a perceived dip in Baleba's performances under manager Fabian Hurzeler this season.
A Major Midfield Rebuild on the Horizon
Baleba is viewed as a cornerstone signing in what is expected to be a transformative summer for United's midfield department. The club anticipates the departure of several key figures, creating a pressing need for new recruits.
Casemiro is expected to leave upon the expiry of his contract in June, while uncertainty clouds the future of captain Bruno Fernandes following the dismissal of manager Ruben Amorim. Furthermore, young star Kobbie Mainoo has reportedly been unsettled amid interest from Italian side Napoli.
United's recruitment team are casting a wide net and Baleba may not be the only arrival. The club is also understood to be monitoring the situations of several other Premier League talents, including:
- Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson
- Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton
- Bournemouth's Alex Scott
The club will first appoint a long-term successor to Amorim, with Michael Carrick currently in interim charge. The tactical identity of the new manager will ultimately shape the final transfer strategy, but preparatory work on targets is already well underway.
Brighton's Tough Negotiating Stance
Any deal for Baleba will require navigating Brighton's renowned and firm negotiating team. The Seagulls have a proven track record of securing maximum value for their stars.
Deputy chairman Paul Barber recently reiterated the club's position, stating: "[We’ve had] no call from Old Trafford, no call from anyone connected to Manchester United. We have no plans or desire to sell Carlos Baleba in this window or any future window."
Chairman Tony Bloom also commented in October, noting that United's interest last summer did not become a 'saga' because the club made it clear Baleba was unavailable and suitors "went away." Baleba remains under contract with Brighton until June 2028.
However, Brighton's model is built on eventual player trading, and their confidence in their recruitment system to find a replacement could pave the way for a deal if United meet their substantial valuation.
