Manchester United are reportedly considering a summer approach for Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, with the 21-year-old Cameroonian emerging as a potential target in what would be a hugely surprising swoop. The Telegraph reports that United see Baleba as a high-potential addition capable of providing energy, physicality and progressive passing to their midfield rebuild, particularly as they look for long-term options beyond Casemiro and ahead of potential departures. Brighton, however, are expected to demand around £55m for the player who has established himself as one of the division's most promising young defensive midfielders.
Baleba joined Brighton from Lille in summer 2023 for an initial £23m fee that could rise with add-ons. He has developed rapidly under Fabian Hürzeler, starting 19 of Brighton's 23 Premier League matches this season while averaging 2.4 tackles, 1.8 interceptions and 85% pass completion per 90 minutes. His ability to break lines with forward passes and win duels has made him a key component of Brighton's possession-based style, drawing comparisons to a young N'Golo Kanté with better technical quality on the ball. At 21, Baleba offers significant resale value and long-term upside, making him an attractive proposition for clubs looking to invest in youth.
United's Midfield Needs and Baleba Fit
United's interest reflects ongoing concerns over midfield depth and dynamism. Casemiro's influence has waned due to age and mobility issues, while Christian Eriksen and Sofyan Amrabat have not provided the required consistency. Kobbie Mainoo has been a bright spot, but Ruben Amorim's preferred double pivot system demands athletic, ball-winning players who can also progress possession. Baleba's profile aligns well: left-footed, strong in recovery, capable of covering ground and comfortable in possession, he could form a balanced partnership with Mainoo or Manuel Ugarte. His youth would allow United to build around him for the next decade.
The major caveat is Champions League qualification. The Telegraph notes that United's interest is contingent on securing a top-four finish or Europa League success that guarantees European football next season. Without continental competition, attracting a player of Baleba's potential becomes significantly harder, especially against rivals who can offer Champions League minutes. Brighton are under no pressure to sell and would likely demand a premium fee, potentially pushing the total cost towards £60m+ with add-ons.
Market Reaction and Valuation Reality
Betting markets have shown some reaction to the reports, with odds shortening slightly on Baleba moving to a top-six club this summer. United are priced as outsiders behind Arsenal and Chelsea, who have tracked him longer, but interest from Old Trafford has generated attention. The latest Carlos Baleba next club odds reflect growing chatter, though scepticism remains over whether United would meet Brighton's demands without European football secured. Brighton retain strong leverage through his contract until 2028 and his rising stock as one of Europe's most promising young No6s.
Baleba's development has been impressive: from Lille to Brighton, he has transitioned seamlessly to the Premier League while maintaining his physical edge and technical quality. United's pursuit, if serious, would signal intent to invest in youth and athleticism in midfield — a shift from recent recruitment patterns. However, without Champions League football, the move risks becoming unrealistic. The summer window will reveal whether this interest materialises into concrete negotiations or remains speculative.
Summer Outlook and Midfield Market Context
The coming months will test United's recruitment discipline. A successful pursuit of Baleba would represent a statement of ambition and long-term planning; failure to qualify for Europe could force a pivot to lower-cost or older options. Brighton will demand a premium for a player who has already proven himself in the Premier League and offers significant upside. Baleba's next move will likely be one of the standout midfield transfers of the window, with his blend of youth, athleticism and technical quality making him a valuable commodity in a market short on top-class young defensive midfielders.