“Everyone” who has plenty of money wants Brighton’s midfield sensation Carlos Baleba. “That was true in the summer, now in the winter window and even more so when we get to the next big transfer window in the summer. – Even though it is freezing temperatures and snow outside, it is fast approaching summer and the race has already started. Chelsea have ended up in pole position with Paris Saint-Germain after elbowing their way past Manchester United and other clubs by showing a willingness to spend big money.
TEAMtalk writes about the interest in the 22-year-old Cameroonian, who has impressed greatly with his dynamic performances since joining the Seagulls from Lille in 2023.
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“Carlos Baleba just gets better and better in a team that disappoints, time for a change”
Baleba, known for his robust tackle, vision, and ability to dictate pace, is eager to make the step up to an elite club. Insider sources suggest that he is ready for a transfer that offers Champions League football.
With Brighton’s disappointing form this season and unlikely European hopes, the chances of keeping him seem slim, especially as the club prepares for another potential exodus of talent after the likes of Moises Caicedo, who joined Chelsea for £115 million in 2023, and Alexis Mac Allister.
Brighton are now in a boring 14th place in the Premier League, far away from playing in Europe and uncomfortably close to the red line.
Brighton, known for their shrewd business deals, are ready to demand a significant sum. Valuations place Baleba in the £80-100 million category, a sum that underlines their shrewd negotiation tactics under owner Tony Bloom.
We can confirm that both Chelsea and PSG have been active in recent weeks in relation to Baleba. They are currently best placed to secure him in the summer, as both can offer him Champions League football and have exciting projects to sell.
They are not the only ones keeping an eye on Baleba, with Manchester United among three other Premier League clubs interested in signing him.
Manchester United still in the race for Carlos Baleba
Manchester United remain challengers in the match. They are also in the hunt for Champions League football after hiring Michael Carrick for the rest of the season, but financial constraints and the desire for more budget-friendly options could make them look towards other opportunities.
Tottenham Hotspur are also big admirers and praise his Premier League adaptation, but convincing him to join without European football could prove challenging – especially against the clubs that want to play in the Champions League.
Newcastle United emerge as an unknown factor. If they were to get rid of key players like Sandro Tonali or Bruno Guimaraes, Baleba could fit in seamlessly at St James’ Park. Eddie Howe’s side, with their ambitious project, could appeal if they secure European qualification, although at the moment it seems unlikely.
As the transfer window approaches, Baleba’s future will be something to keep an eye on.
Brighton’s determination will be tested, but for the player, a leap to the elite is on the cards. Whether it will be Stamford Bridge, Parc des Princes or somewhere else, he will be on his way forward this coming summer.
The Seagulls, for their part, have sent scouts to see FC Nordsjælland’s midfielder Caleb Yirenky in action recently. The 20-year-old has been referred to as the “next Michael Essien”, and is seen as a potential replacement for Baleba. Transfermarkt thinks his value is 8 million euros, we and most people think Brighton need to add a few million to land a deal.
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