As Manchester United prepare to host Brighton & Hove Albion at Old Trafford, all eyes are on midfielder Carlos Baleba — a player admired by United scouts but still considered far from worth the £100 million price tag attached to his name. While Erik ten Hag’s side continue to monitor the 21-year-old’s progress, the club’s hierarchy remains cautious about splashing out such a figure for a player yet to fully prove his consistency.
United’s Interest in Baleba
Manchester United have long been tracking Carlos Baleba as a potential addition to their evolving project. The young Cameroonian midfielder’s composure, physicality, and ball-winning ability have impressed the Red Devils’ recruitment team, who see him as a strong tactical fit for the club’s future.
United made discreet contact with Brighton during the last summer window, signaling genuine interest in the player. However, Brighton stood firm — refusing to negotiate or even discuss a potential fee. Reports at the time indicated that the Seagulls valued Baleba at over £100 million, a figure United found difficult to justify.
Valuation Remains a Sticking Point
Inside Old Trafford, the stance remains unchanged: Baleba is a talent with promise, but not one commanding a nine-figure valuation. Sources close to the club have hinted that unless Brighton lower their asking price or Baleba delivers a series of standout performances, United are unlikely to revive talks in January.
Brighton’s valuation continues to reflect their confidence in the player’s long-term potential, even though his performances this season have dipped compared to last year’s impressive campaign.
Baleba’s Form and Brighton’s Confidence
After an excellent 2024/25 season, Baleba has struggled to find momentum this term. The 21-year-old is yet to complete a full 90 minutes and hasn’t hit the same levels that made him one of the Premier League’s most promising midfielders.
Despite the slow start, Brighton remain steadfast in their belief that Baleba will rediscover his best form. Manager Roberto De Zerbi views him as a crucial component of the squad’s midfield and continues to back him to deliver as the season progresses.
United’s Transfer Outlook
While Baleba’s name remains on Manchester United’s radar, insiders suggest the club will explore other midfield options in the coming transfer windows. Any move for the Brighton star would require either a major drop in valuation or overwhelming evidence that he can consistently perform at an elite level.
For now, Baleba looks set to stay at the Amex Stadium, with United watching closely but unwilling to overpay. A strong performance at Old Trafford could reignite the conversation — but as things stand, a January move appears unlikely.
