💣 CONFIRMED: Manchester United Sound Out Brighton Over Carlos Baleba January Move
Manchester United have made an initial approach to Brighton & Hove Albion to explore the conditions of a potential move for midfielder Carlos Baleba during the January transfer window, sources have confirmed. While no formal bid has been submitted, United’s enquiry signals growing admiration for the highly rated 20-year-old as the club assesses options to strengthen its midfield.
Baleba has been one of Brighton’s standout performers this season, impressing with his athleticism, ball-winning ability and composure in possession. Since joining from Lille, the Cameroon international has quickly established himself as a key figure under Brighton’s current setup, drawing attention from several top Premier League clubs — with Manchester United now firmly among them.
United’s enquiry is understood to be part of a wider fact-finding mission. Club officials reportedly asked Brighton about availability, valuation and the player’s long-term situation, rather than pushing immediately for negotiations. Brighton’s response, however, was clear: they have no intention of selling Baleba mid-season.
The south coast club consider Baleba central to their plans for the remainder of the campaign and are reluctant to weaken their squad during a crucial period. Brighton are also aware of the player’s rapidly rising market value and feel there is no sporting or financial pressure to cash in this January.
Reports suggest that any deal would require an enormous fee, potentially well in excess of £80–100 million — a figure that effectively rules out a January transfer unless Manchester United are prepared to break their budget. As things stand, that scenario appears unlikely.
Manchester United’s interest comes amid an ongoing review of the squad under the club’s new sporting structure led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
Midfield has been identified as an area that may need reinforcement, particularly with questions around balance, intensity and long-term succession planning. Baleba’s profile — young, powerful and Premier League-proven — fits the type of player United are monitoring.
However, United have also been linked with several alternative midfield targets, and there is no indication that Baleba is the club’s sole focus. The emphasis this window appears to be on discipline and long-term planning rather than reactive spending.
From Brighton’s perspective, the situation is straightforward. They are relaxed about external interest and confident they can retain Baleba at least until the summer.
The club’s track record of selling at the right time — and at premium prices — means they are willing to wait for the ideal moment rather than negotiate under pressure.
As the January window progresses, a move for Baleba remains possible only in theory. All current indications point to Manchester United simply gathering information, with any serious attempt more likely to be revisited in the summer transfer window.
For now, Baleba remains a Brighton player — and one they are determined to keep.
