Manchester United reportedly have little chance of signing Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba this summer, despite strong links to the Cameroonian player.
Baleba is believed to be United’s first choice in the remaining transfer window, manager Ruben Amorim is determined to strengthen the midfield.
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Rumours of a possible move to Old Trafford have increased, and Baleba himself is said to be open to a change of club.
However, according to The Telegraph, it seems to be becoming increasingly less likely that the transfer will materialize this summer due to the high financial demands.
Brighton demand over £
100 million The report reveals that Brighton are demanding more than £100 million (about £1.3 billion) for the 21-year-old, and the club are not willing to lower the price since his contract runs until the summer of 2028.
United ‘unlikely’ to sign Baleba
Although United are reportedly interested, they will not go over £100m for Baleba – who has also been linked with Manchester City and Liverpool.
Baleba joined Brighton from Lille in 2023 and has made 77 appearances for the club, scoring four goals and providing two assists.
The expectation is that he will leave Brighton within the next 12 months, with several major European clubs interested in his talent.
Baleba’s unique qualities
The midfielder impresses with:
- Excellent bale carrying capacity
- Strength both with and without the ball
- A unique skillset that makes him a rare talent
Will United sign a new midfielder?
Despite several options in midfield:
- Bruno Fernandes can play deeper
- Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo as 10s
- Kobbie Mainoo, Manuel Ugarte and Casemiro as choices
Amorim is concerned about a lack of mobility in central midfield and is expected to bring in reinforcements before the window closes – although the Baleba purchase looks set to be too expensive.
Options on the table
If the Baleba transfer falls through, United will have to consider other options to strengthen their midfield before the transfer window closes on August 30.
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