JUST IN: Manchester United and Brighton to Hold Fresh Talks Over Carlos Baleba Transfer

Manchester United are preparing to step up their pursuit of Brighton’s talented midfielder Carlos Baleba, with fresh talks between the two clubs expected to take place in the coming hours. Sources close to the negotiations reveal that the Red Devils are now ready to submit a formal bid for the 20-year-old, marking a significant development in what has been a quietly building transfer story.

Baleba, who joined Brighton from Lille in 2023, has quickly established himself as one of the most promising young midfielders in the Premier League. Known for his composure on the ball, excellent distribution, and ability to break up play, the Cameroonian has caught the eye of several top European clubs. However, it is Manchester United who have made the first concrete move to bring him to Old Trafford.

Insiders indicate that Baleba is keen on the switch. The midfielder sees the potential transfer as a major step forward in his career, offering the chance to compete at the highest level in both domestic and European competitions. United’s project under Erik ten Hag, coupled with the club’s need for midfield reinforcements, has made the move an attractive proposition for the player.

Brighton, while reluctant to lose a player of Baleba’s calibre, appear to be preparing for the possibility of his departure. Reports suggest the Seagulls are already working behind the scenes to identify and secure a potential replacement, a strategy consistent with the club’s well-known recruitment model. This approach has seen Brighton thrive in the transfer market in recent years, often selling players for large fees and reinvesting wisely in emerging talent.

The timing of United’s approach is no coincidence. With the January transfer window now in full swing, Erik ten Hag is pushing for decisive action to strengthen his squad for the remainder of the season. Injuries and inconsistency in the middle of the park have exposed the need for fresh energy, and Baleba’s profile fits perfectly with the Dutchman’s vision for a more dynamic midfield.

United’s midfield has been an area of concern, with Casemiro facing fitness challenges, Sofyan Amrabat yet to fully settle, and Christian Eriksen managing a lighter workload due to his age. Baleba, at just 20 years old, offers not only immediate quality but also long-term potential, making him an appealing investment for the club.

Brighton, however, are in a strong negotiating position. Baleba’s contract runs until 2028, and the Seagulls have no financial pressure to sell. This means United will likely need to table a significant offer to convince them to part ways with their prized asset. Early indications suggest a bid in the region of £40–50 million could be required to open serious discussions.

Baleba’s potential arrival at Old Trafford would not only address United’s midfield depth issues but also signal a continued shift towards recruiting younger players with high ceilings. Under Ten Hag, the club has shown a willingness to blend experienced leaders with emerging stars, and Baleba would fit neatly into this evolving blueprint.

For Baleba himself, the move would represent a massive leap. From playing in Ligue 1 to becoming a regular in the Premier League with Brighton, and potentially now joining one of the most globally recognized clubs in football, his rise has been rapid. Friends and close contacts of the player say he has remained grounded throughout his journey and is focused on developing his game further, wherever his career takes him.

As things stand, the next 48 hours could be decisive. If Manchester United’s bid meets Brighton’s valuation, and personal terms are agreed smoothly, the Red Devils could have a new midfield reinforcement before the window closes. For Brighton, the priority will be ensuring they have a replacement lined up to avoid weakening their squad during a crucial stage of the season.

With talks set to resume shortly, all eyes will be on whether Manchester United can seal the deal for one of the Premier League’s most exciting young midfielders. The chase for Carlos Baleba is heating up, and it may only be a matter of time before we see him don the famous red shirt at Old Trafford.