Manchester United have made indirect contact with Brighton & Hove Albion over highly-rated midfielder Carlos Baleba, according to fresh reports like Fabrizio Romano and David Ornstein.
Discussions are at an early stage and have so far been conducted via intermediaries — but while United are seriously interested, Brighton have no plans to sell the 20-year-old this summer.
United are now assessing whether a move is realistically achievable, with internal decisions expected in the coming days.
Who Is Carlos Baleba?
The Cameroonian midfielder joined Brighton from Lille in September 2023 for a fee in the region of £23 million. Since then, he has gradually grown into a key figure at the Amex, known for his powerful carrying, defensive instincts, and press resistance — traits that make him a natural fit for Amorim’s midfield rebuild.
Baleba made 27 appearances in all competitions last season, often catching the eye with his physicality and tactical maturity beyond his years.
Baleba’s Current Contract and Wages at Brighton
Carlos Baleba signed a long-term contract with Brighton running until June 2028.
He currently earns a reported £45,000 per week — modest by Premier League standards, especially for a player of his growing stature and potential.
That salary figure, combined with his age and upside, is one reason Manchester United view him as a high-upside midfield target.
However, Brighton have built a reputation for selling on their terms — and only when they choose to.
“#MUFC have contacted Brighton via intermediaries to explore the conditions of a deal for Carlos Baleba. Brighton do not plan to sell. All sides are aware a move may be unrealistic.”
Why United Are Targeting Baleba
Manchester United’s midfield needs a physical upgrade. Casemiro has declined and Kobbie Mainoo is still being managed carefully due to age.
Baleba offers a potential long-term solution as a modern holding midfielder who can break lines, recover possession, and shield the defence — all at just 20 years old.
Carlos Baleba – 2024/25 Key Stats
| Competition | Appearances | Tackles per 90 | Interceptions | Progressive Carries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Premier League | 24 | 2.7 | 1.8 | 4.1 |
| FA Cup | 3 | 2.2 | 1.2 | 3.9 |
Analyst Verdict: Unlikely, But Not Impossible
Brighton are under no pressure to sell and rarely engage in mid-window deals unless the fee is massive. With Baleba under a long-term contract, any approach would need to greatly exceed the £23m paid to Lille.
From United’s side, this looks like an exploratory move to assess whether a quick deal could be done before turning attention to more expensive or less attainable targets.
If Brighton open the door even slightly, expect negotiations to move fast — but as it stands, the ball is firmly in Brighton’s court.
Key Insights
- United made contact via intermediaries for Carlos Baleba
- Brighton do not plan to sell this summer
- Baleba earns around £45k-a-week, contract runs to 2028
- United see him as a long-term Casemiro replacement
- Decision expected in coming days on whether to pursue
What’s Next?
Manchester United are expected to decide in the next few days whether to advance talks formally or focus elsewhere.
Brighton remain firm in their stance that Baleba is not for sale — but as with Moisés Caicedo and Alexis Mac Allister, a huge offer could change their stance.
This could go quiet — or escalate quickly if United put serious money on the table.
Should United push hard for Baleba — or focus on more realistic targets?
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