Out of nowhere, Manchester United have emerged as potential front-runners to sign Brighton & Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba.
The 21-year-old has been a vital part of Brighton’s side, helping the Seagulls come eighth in the Premier League last season, securing a ninth consecutive campaign in the top flight.
However, his impressive spell hasn’t gone unnoticed, with Manchester United, Liverpool, Manchester City and Arsenal all looking at the Cameroon international.
Earlier today it was reported that United are leading the race as they look to recruit a midfielder to be a long-term replacement for Casemiro, with Christian Eriksen having also left the club at the end of his contract.
Now, Fabrizio Romano has brought some extra clarity to the situation around United’s pursuit of Carlos Baleba.
Romano has now reported that Baleba is open to a move to Old Trafford after The Red Devils have held contacts with his representatives.
Whilst personal terms with the defensive midfielder don’t appear to be a concern for United, the main issue is expected to be club-to-club negotiations with Brighton.
The club are determined to retain their star who has a contract until 2028, putting the Seagulls in a strong position to negotiate from.
As such, it’s expected that United would need to commit to a hefty transfer fee to get Brighton to agree to parting ways with their key man.
Brighton’s CEO Paul Barber has expressed that no such talks have begun between the two Premier League clubs, commenting: “There’s always going to be interest in our players. Manchester United have not been in touch with me. Speculation is speculation. “
He continued: “Carlos [Baleba] is a fantastic talent. We hope he’ll be here for years to come, but its subject to the dynamics of the football world, which isn’t always predictable.”
🚨🔴 Carlos Baleba didn’t close doors to Man United after direct contact with his camp.
Manchester United believe agreeing terms with Baleba terms won’t be an issue but club-to-club deal, considered very difficult.
Brighton want to keep Baleba this summer & won’t make it easy. pic.twitter.com/JiflxWe1IM
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 6, 2025
