Manchester United reignite interest in Carlos Baleba

Brighton and Hove Albion FC Football Sport

With Manchester United looking for a third midfielder, their interest in Carlos Baleba has heated up once again.

Reports had revealed that contact was made between the clubs over a possible move. However, their pursuit was halted due to Albion's valuation of the exciting midfielder.

Brighton were not willing to budge on their over £100 million valuation.

The 22-year-old had an outstanding, breakthrough 2024/25 season, becoming The Seagulls' most consistent midfielder.

His press and individual runs electrified the Amex Stadium.

Fans and his coach also admired his physical presence and ability to track back.

This summer, it's believed that the Cameroon midfielder is still on the Red Devils' shortlist of transfer targets.

It would be fair to say that last year's rumours affected Baleba's on-pitch performances during the 25/26 campaign.

Baleba made 23 league starts last season, eight fewer than in 2024-25.

Carlos was also left out of Brighton's starting line-up for the final game of the season, a 3-0 defeat against Manchester United.

After that game, head coach Fabian Hurzeler explained why the star midfielder was benched.

Albion boss Hurzeler said: “I think he kind of struggled a little bit last week in the game against Leeds United regarding physicality, regarding his condition.

“And also, during the week he felt quite tired, so that's why we made this change.

"We know that Carlos gives us something special but overall it was also like a decision for experience and trying to bring players on the pitch that were there during the season.

“I really trusted the team. I trusted everyone who was starting. In the end, afterwards, you always know more so you can judge these decisions.

“But we went into the game with a lot of conviction.”

Hurzeler did reinforce that he would "100%" like to work with the midfielder for the upcoming campaign.

So far this summer transfer window, Man United have signed Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa and Andrey Santos from Chelsea for a combined £85m.