BREAKING NEWS: Major updates have surfaced regarding Manchester United’s chase for Carlos Baleba, with fresh details revealing the midfielder’s position and Brighton’s surprising conditions.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe is reportedly lining up a massive £100 million offer for the highly rated Cameroonian this January — but Brighton have shocked United by demanding £100 million **plus** a Manchester United player as part of the deal.
Baleba, one of the Premier League’s most exciting young midfielders, has drawn interest from several top European clubs.
Yet reports claim his preference is crystal clear: he wants to join Manchester United, even with Bayern Munich now entering the race.
Bayern have recently intensified their scouting of the 21-year-old as they search for a long-term replacement for Leon Goretzka, whose contract expires this summer.
Their interest follows the success of Premier League signings like Harry Kane, Michael Olise, and Luis Díaz.
Since arriving from Lille in 2023, Baleba has rapidly developed into one of Brighton’s key assets thanks to his ball-carrying, pressing ability, and composure. His standout season earned him Brighton’s Young Player of the Year award for 2024/25.
Brighton, fully aware of the growing interest, have valued him at €85 million (around £74.2 million). Despite Bayern’s push, Baleba is believed to prefer staying in the Premier League — and specifically wants a move to Old Trafford.
United explored a deal for him in the summer and have maintained contact since. With their midfield being rebuilt, Baleba is seen as an ideal fit due to his physicality and transition play.
If the transfer goes through, he will reunite with Cameroonian teammate Bryan Mbeumo, who recently joined United. Both are set to represent Cameroon at the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations.
With January nearing, the fight for Baleba is intensifying — but all indications point to Manchester United as his top choice, even as Brighton’s steep demands complicate the negotiations.
