Man United’s Baleba Chase Still Alive as Brighton Star Mulls Push for Old Trafford

Don’t file this one under done and dusted just yet. Manchester United’s interest in Brighton powerhouse Carlos Baleba is very much alive, and there’s a growing feeling the player himself could nudge this saga towards Old Trafford before the window slams shut.

United’s midfield rebuild is in full swing

United have already added Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans to stiffen the spine, a clear response to Casemiro’s exit and the setback suffered by Manuel Ugarte. The brief is obvious: more control, tidier passing, and far quicker turnovers when out of possession. INEOS, mind you, are holding the purse strings tightly in a frothy market—they’ll chase value, not vanity.

Why Baleba still fits the bill

Described in some quarters as “world-class” potential, Baleba remains a long-term target for a reason. At 22, he’s got the engine, bite and bravery to break up play, plus the calm to recycle the ball and set the tempo—exactly the profile United have been missing. He endured a tricky campaign, with whispers that United’s interest last summer turned his head, but the upside is obvious and the fit alongside the current options is tidy.

The price and the poker face

Brighton wanted around £100m last summer—classic Seagulls stance, pay the premium or jog on. Now the figure being floated is closer to £80m. United don’t see him at that number and have sounded out alternatives, but the door hasn’t closed. Personal terms were effectively lined up last year, fresh talks have been held this week, and there’s a suggestion Baleba could push to get it done. This one’s still in play.

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Pundit’s verdict

If Brighton’s stance softens into something sensible, United should move decisively—he ticks the boxes for control, ball-winning and future resale. But if the price stays punchy, INEOS are right to hold their ground. Either way, this is one to watch as the final weeks of the window crank up the pressure.