BREAKING NEWS: Huge updates have surfaced regarding Manchester United’s chase for Carlos Baleba, with fresh details revealing the midfielder’s preference and Brighton’s surprising demands.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe is reportedly preparing a massive £100 million offer to land the highly rated Cameroonian in January — but Brighton have shocked United by insisting on £100 million *plus* one Manchester United player in return.
Baleba, one of the Premier League’s fastest-rising young midfield talents, has caught the attention of several major European clubs. Yet reports indicate his priority remains unchanged: he wants to join Manchester United, even after Bayern Munich entered the race.
Bayern have recently intensified their interest in the 21-year-old, viewing him as a long-term replacement for Leon Goretzka, whose contract expires this summer with no extension expected.
Sky Sports reports that the German side’s scouts have monitored Baleba closely, especially following the success of Premier League arrivals like Harry Kane, Michael Olise, and Luis Díaz.
Since arriving at Brighton from Lille in 2023, Baleba has developed rapidly. His strong ball-carrying ability, pressing intensity, and calmness in possession have made him a crucial part of Roberto De Zerbi’s squad. His performances earned him Brighton’s Young Player of the Year award for 2024/25.
Aware of his rising value, Brighton have placed an €85 million (around £74.2 million) valuation on him. Despite Bayern’s growing interest, Baleba reportedly wants to stay in the Premier League — and specifically hopes for a move to Old Trafford.
Manchester United have been monitoring him since the summer window and have maintained contact with Brighton. With United’s midfield rebuild underway under new leadership, Baleba is seen as a perfect addition due to his energy, power, and ability to link defense and attack.
If the transfer goes through, Baleba would join fellow Cameroonian teammate Bryan Mbeumo, who recently signed for United. Both players are set to feature for Cameroon at the Africa Cup of Nations later this month, and a move to Old Trafford would further strengthen their chemistry.
As the January window nears, the competition for Baleba is intensifying — but all indications point to Manchester United being his preferred destination, even as negotiations become more challenging with Brighton’s bold conditions.
