Manchester United’s search for midfield reinforcements remains a key priority as the transfer window enters its final stretch.
Ruben Amorim is eager to add a dynamic, physical presence in the middle of the park, and Brighton’s Carlos Baleba has emerged as one of the most coveted options.
The 21-year-old’s mix of defensive discipline and class on the ball is seen by the United hierarchy as almost the perfect profile to slot into Amorim’s system.
Such a signing would not only strengthen United’s midfield spine but also offer long-term value given Baleba’s age and development trajectory.
However, according to Brighton news outlet, The Argus, Baleba is understood to be happy to remain with Brighton despite the growing noise around United’s interest.
The midfielder has been sidelined since suffering a minor knee issue in training after a 3-1 win over Stoke City during pre-season.
He has missed recent games against Las Palmas, Coventry and Southampton.
Despite being absent from the lineup, he was present at Brighton’s training base in Lancing to watch his teammates beat Wolfsburg 2-1 behind closed doors at the weekend.
Albion head coach Fabian Hurzeler confirmed: “He trained today (Saturday), he trained yesterday (Friday) so we don’t want to take any risks but he will be back.”
News has circulated this week that despite continuing negotiations, United see the deal currently as “really difficult.”
The Red Devils were even willing to offer players as part of a deal, however that appears to be off the cards.
Brighton’s stance, though, remains firm – they see Baleba as a big-money sale, but not until next summer at the earliest.
While his representatives were reportedly willing to lower their commission to make a move happen, Baleba appears content to continue his development on the south coast for now.
United fans will remain hopeful however, of the club acquiring his signature.
Brighton are known to be a selling club, having famously lost Moises Caicedo to Chelsea and Alexis Mac Allister to Liverpool not long ago.
