Aug 3, 2024; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher (62) defends against Manchester United at Williams-Brice Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-USA TODAY Sports

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Manchester United Make Contact with Brighton Over Carlos Baleba

Aug 3, 2024; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher (62) defends against Manchester United at Williams-Brice Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-USA TODAY Sports

Manchester United have initiated early discussions over a potential move for Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, with intermediaries making contact in recent days. The 21-year-old Cameroonian has emerged as a key target in United’s midfield revamp under head coach Ruben Amorim.

📍Update:

Carlos Baleba and his agent just got the word this lunchtime from @OfficialBHAFC that @ManUtd has officially made their move 💣

They’ve reached out through the right channels, and it was done respectfully.

Baleba’s been told that if a respectable bid comes in,… pic.twitter.com/djO5jxOA2y
— indykaila News (@indykaila) August 7, 2025

Baleba, who joined Brighton from Lille in the summer of 2023, has quickly established himself as one of the most promising young midfielders in the Premier League. His blend of technical composure, physical power, and ability to carry the ball from deep positions has impressed United’s recruitment department.

He is viewed as a long-term solution to United’s midfield structure and a potential successor to Casemiro, as the club looks to inject youth and dynamism into the spine of the team.

Amorim Identifies Midfield Reinforcements

Amorim is believed to be particularly interested in Baleba’s profile, which aligns with his vision of building a high-intensity, athletic squad capable of competing at the top level. With uncertainty looming over the futures of several senior midfielders, including Christian Eriksen and Scott McTominay, United are expected to be active in the midfield market.

While Brighton value Baleba as a crucial part of their future plans, they have consistently shown a willingness to part with key players for the right price. The club is known for developing young talent and commanding premium transfer fees, and would likely expect a significant offer before entertaining serious talks.

ALSO READ: Chelsea in Talks to Sign Man Utd Winger Alejandro Garnacho

Interest Grows, but No Formal Offer Yet for Baleba

At this stage, United’s approach is described as exploratory, with no official bid submitted. Baleba remains one of several midfield targets under consideration, as United aim to finalise their squad ahead of the 2025/26 season.

The coming weeks could prove decisive, particularly if Brighton receive formal interest from other top clubs also monitoring the Cameroonian’s development.