Brighton have made their stance clear on Carlos Baleba not leaving the club this summer. The 20-year-old midfielder, who has impressed with his composure and versatility since arriving from Lille, has attracted interest from Manchester United, but they are determined to hold onto their rising star for at least another season.
United, however, have not dropped the chase. The club’s recruitment team and new manager Rúben Amorim are said to view Baleba as an “ideal fit” for the midfield they are trying to rebuild. Sources close to Old Trafford suggest that while Brighton are immovable this summer, United have added Baleba to their 2026 transfer shortlist and will closely monitor his progress in the Premier League.
Baleba’s performances have made him one of the most promising young midfielders in England. His ability to break up play, drive the ball forward, and adapt in both defensive and attacking phases has caught the attention of several top clubs. For United, who are keen to inject energy and dynamism into midfield, the Cameroonian fits perfectly into Amorim’s high-intensity style.
Brighton’s refusal is no surprise, given their track record of developing and selling players at the right time. They see Baleba as central to their ambitions both in the Premier League and in Europe. Manager Fabian Hürzeler has been vocal about the importance of keeping key players, and the club believes Baleba’s value could skyrocket with another season of top-flight football under his belt.
For United fans, the wait could be frustrating as explained in the comment section of Transfer guru, Fabrizio Romano, but the club’s strategy reflects a longer-term vision. If Baleba continues on his current path, a move in 2026 could see him arrive at Old Trafford as a more complete and established midfielder, capable of becoming a foundation in Amorim’s project.
