The race to sign Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba is heating up, with Liverpool and Manchester United reportedly positioning themselves for a major move. While Arsenal may be losing ground on a key long-term target, Brighton’s transfer strategy, including a potential swoop for Sevilla’s Lucien Agoume, could pave the way for a blockbuster transfer in 2026.
Carlos Baleba: Premier League Giants Circle for Rising Star
Carlos Baleba has rapidly become one of the most coveted young midfielders in European football. The Brighton star is attracting serious interest from Premier League heavyweights, including Manchester United and Liverpool. Despite a bold attempt to land the 20-year-old during the summer window, United’s pursuit fell short due to financial constraints following a £200m spree on attacking reinforcements, including Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo, and Matheus Cunha.
With Baleba reportedly valued at over £100 million, United hesitated—allowing rivals to eye their chance.
Liverpool Joins the Race as Brighton Eyes Midfield Reinforcements
Liverpool, always on the lookout for dynamic midfield talent, have now reportedly entered the competition for Baleba. Their interest adds fresh urgency to Brighton’s internal preparations, with the club unlikely to let Baleba leave without securing a suitable replacement.
Reports suggest Brighton has set its sights on Lucien Agoume—a long-time Arsenal target currently with Sevilla—as Baleba’s potential successor. Securing a new midfield anchor would allow the Seagulls to entertain offers for their prized asset, likely making next summer’s window a pivotal moment.
Brighton’s Strategic Shift: Jason Ayto’s Arrival Marks New Era
The key figure in Brighton’s recruitment vision is Jason Ayto, a respected name in Premier League circles. Formerly acting as Arsenal’s interim sporting director, Ayto is set to take over the role at Brighton, replacing David Weir in what is being dubbed a “coup” appointment by insiders.
Ayto reportedly made multiple attempts to sign Agoume during his stints at Arsenal and Newcastle, and his admiration for the French midfielder could now shape Brighton’s next big transfer. Sources suggest Ayto and Brighton view Agoume as a long-term asset with the potential to evolve into a Premier League star by 2026.
What This Means for Arsenal, United, and Liverpool
For Arsenal, missing out on both Agoume and Baleba would be a blow, especially given their long-standing interest in both midfielders. Meanwhile, Manchester United appear determined to reignite their pursuit of Baleba in upcoming windows, though they may face stiff competition from Liverpool, who could match both the ambition and financial muscle to close a deal.
If Brighton secure Agoume, it could unlock a high-profile sale of Baleba—making the upcoming transfer windows ones to watch for fans and scouts alike.
