Manchester United’s search for midfield reinforcements remains a key talking point as the club prepares for the closing stages of the transfer window.
Ruben Amorim has made it clear he wants depth and quality in the middle of the park, with recruitment seen as vital for Premier League ambitions.
United have already strengthened other areas of the pitch this summer, but midfield remains a top priority before the deadline.
Supporters have grown increasingly eager for news, particularly as rivals continue to add to their squads.
With competition for players intensifying, timing could prove crucial.
According to Fabrizio Romano via YouTube, Brighton have so far refused to give Manchester United an official valuation for Carlos Baleba, keeping the Red Devils guessing over what it will take to sign the 21-year-old midfielder.
The Seagulls are adopting a familiar approach, reminiscent of the Moises Caicedo transfer saga in 2023.
In that case, Brighton held back on naming a price until Liverpool made an official bid, prompting Chelsea to swoop in and offer slightly more to secure the deal.
Romano also suggests United have held talks with Baleba’s representatives but have been unable to move forward without a clear figure from Brighton.
The south coast club are under no pressure to sell and are said to value Carlos Baleba extremely highly, with suggestions that any deal could require a fee exceeding the £115 million received for Caicedo.
Brighton’s reluctance to set a price could be a deliberate tactic to spark a bidding war if other clubs express interest.
United’s recruitment team are aware of the risks, particularly if rivals decide to enter the race.
For Amorim, Baleba is seen as a player who could add energy, physicality and composure in midfield, qualities that would complement United’s current options.
However, with Brighton’s negotiating stance proving difficult to navigate, United face a decision on whether to push ahead aggressively or seek alternative targets before the window closes.
Several United players have personally reached out to the Cameroon international in an effort to persuade him to make the move to Manchester.
The situation has sparked memories among supporters of deals that slipped away in the past due to drawn-out negotiations.
Whether United can avoid history repeating itself may depend on how quickly they act — and whether Brighton are willing to finally name their price.
