BREAKING: Carlos Baleba to Manchester United, here we go!

Manchester United are reportedly stepping up their pursuit of Carlos Baleba, the 21-year-old Cameroonian dynamo from Brighton & Hove Albion, with the Red Devils believed to be preparing a major move in the final days of the summer transfer window.

Baleba, who starred for Brighton during the 2024–25 season—making 34 Premier League appearances, scoring three goals, and providing one assist—has emerged as a top midfield target for United manager Rúben Amorim, who is intent on injecting energy and athleticism into his 3–4–3 system. (The Peoples Person, Yardbarker, Football Transfers)

Recent developments indicate that United have made contact via intermediaries to explore a possible deal, although Brighton have shown no intention of selling and are reportedly demanding an astronomical fee.

Multiple sources, including ESPN, suggest that Brighton have set their asking price at around €120 million, underscoring just how high their valuation of the midfielder has climbed

Despite the massive price tag, United believe Baleba fits the vision articulated by Amorim, who has emphasized the need for players with intensity, stamina, and ball progression abilities.

Club legend Rio Ferdinand has even called for a blockbuster deal, encouraging United to “break the bank” to secure Baleba, describing him as precisely the type of midfield presence the club desperately needs.

Brighton’s commitment to keeping Baleba is clear. CEO Paul Barber and the club hierarchy have publicly dismissed claims of an official approach, stating firmly that they expect the Cameroonian to remain a key part of their project.

Meanwhile, fans are running wild with the speculation. On social media, many pledges are flying—one United supporter even launched a GoFundMe targeting £120 million to help finance the move.

Adding fuel to the fire, Danny Welbeck praised Baleba’s talent, calling him “unstoppable” and a “world-beater” after his dominating performance against Manchester City.

With Manchester United close to clinching Benjamin Šeško, attention is turning squarely to reinvigorating the midfield—and Baleba remains firmly in sight, even if the practicalities of the deal remain incredibly complex.