Manchester United are actively investigating the possibility of a stunning January swoop for Brighton & Hove Albion's highly-rated midfielder, Carlos Baleba, according to reports. The 21-year-old Cameroonian is valued at a staggering £115 million by his club, a figure that would shatter United's previous transfer record.
Record-Breaking Price Tag Poses Major Hurdle
As reported by Daily Mail Sport and Sky Sports, United have 'explored the conditions of a possible transfer' for the player they also admired during the summer window. However, Brighton's stance remains unequivocal: Baleba is not for sale. The Seagulls communicated this eye-watering valuation to United during initial enquiries in August.
This potential fee would comfortably eclipse the £89 million United paid to bring Paul Pogba back to Old Trafford in 2016. Brighton's negotiating power is strengthened by Baleba's long-term contract, which runs until 2028 and includes an option for a further year's extension.
United's Broader Midfield Search and Financial Reality
Faced with this significant obstacle, United's recruitment team, led by sporting director Ruben Amorim, is casting a wide net. The club is also monitoring other young talents including Ayyoub Bouaddi of Lille and Christos Mouzakitis of Olympiacos.
While Elliot Anderson of Nottingham Forest is said to top their midfield shortlist, a move for the English international is considered unlikely before 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. Amorim has publicly stated the club does not intend to make any signings next month. Any move for a player of Baleba's calibre is more likely to be prepared for the summer window.
Financial Prudence Takes Priority
This cautious approach is underpinned by the club's need to manage its finances carefully to comply with Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). Although understood to be within the limits now, significant expenditure would require careful balancing.
Cost-cutting measures and layoffs instigated by co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe have yielded an operating profit of £13.3 million, with full-year revenue forecast between £640-660 million. The potential departures of high-earners like Casemiro, and the sale or loan of players such as Marcus Rashford, could further trim the wage bill, but a £115 million outlay in January remains a distant prospect.
For now, United's pursuit of Carlos Baleba serves as a statement of intent for future windows, but the immediate reality is one of financial pragmatism and exploring more attainable alternatives.
