Manchester United reportedly set to launch a bid for Brighton's rising star Carlos Baleba.
Manchester United's Pursuit of Carlos Baleba Stalls Over Transfer Fee
Manchester United's bid to sign Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba this summer has hit a roadblock, as the two clubs are far apart in their valuation of the player.
According to reports, United have been in direct talks with Brighton, but the Seagulls have set an exorbitant price tag for their star midfielder, with a reported asking price of around £100m. This valuation, which is similar to Chelsea's record-breaking fee for Moisés Caicedo, is considered unrealistic by Manchester United given their recent heavy spending.
United manager Ruben Amorim has identified Baleba as a key target for his midfield, particularly due to the Cameroon international's lung-busting midfield work that fits well in Amorim's 3-4-2-1 system. However, the high asking price has put a hold on the transfer, making an immediate move unlikely before the summer deadline.
Brighton, who value Baleba highly and are keen to keep him until 2028 with an option for an additional year, are unwilling to sell unless their steep valuation is met. The club is reportedly looking for a package in the region of £100m for the midfielder.
While the transfer of Baleba seems unlikely this summer, Manchester United are still in need of a midfielder and have other targets under consideration, such as Stuttgart's Angelo Stiller. Baleba remains highly rated by Amorim for future transfer plans beyond this summer.
The Red Devils are also hoping for the continuation of exits for Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Hojlund before the deadline, to help them with their spending. Garnacho is thought to have agreed personal terms with Chelsea, while Hojlund is wanted by Milan.
If United can get a deal over the line for Baleba before the deadline closes, it would seal a pretty impressive window for Amorim and INEOS. The club's credit facility has been increased to accommodate potential transfers.
According to Indykaila, Manchester United are preparing an opening bid for Baleba, but it remains to be seen whether Brighton will be willing to negotiate a lower fee. The stalemate in negotiations could potentially lead to other targets being pursued by United.
In other news, Marcus Rashford's salary for the 2025/26 season has been covered, and Jason Wilcox has been key in negotiations behind the scenes for the signings of Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko.
*[1] Indykaila *[3] The Athletic *[5] The Guardian*
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