Manchester United have initiated talks with Brighton & Hove Albion regarding a potential £60 million transfer for midfielder Carlos Baleba, with personal terms believed to have been agreed upon between the player and the Old Trafford club, according to sources familiar with the negotiations.
Negotiations Underway for Baleba
The Premier League giants have identified the 21-year-old Cameroon international as a key target to bolster their midfield ahead of the upcoming season. United officials have approached Brighton to discuss a structured deal that could reach the £60 million mark, including add-ons, as they seek to secure the young talent's services.
Brighton, known for their shrewd transfer dealings, are expected to demand a significant fee for Baleba, who joined the club from Lille in 2023 for an initial £23 million. The Seagulls have a track record of selling players for substantial profits, and Baleba's development under manager Roberto De Zerbi has only increased his market value.
Personal Terms Agreed
Sources indicate that Baleba has already reached a verbal agreement with Manchester United on personal terms, paving the way for a potential move if the clubs can finalize a fee. The midfielder is said to be attracted by the prospect of playing at Old Trafford and under United's new management structure.
United's midfield has been an area of focus for recruitment, with manager Erik ten Hag seeking to add depth and dynamism to his squad. Baleba's physicality, ball-carrying ability, and defensive awareness make him an appealing option to complement existing players like Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes.
Brighton's Stance
Brighton, however, are under no pressure to sell, as Baleba remains under contract until 2028. The club has a history of maximizing transfer fees, as seen with the sales of Moisés Caicedo to Chelsea for £115 million and Alexis Mac Allister to Liverpool for £35 million. United's opening offer is expected to fall short of Brighton's valuation, but negotiations are ongoing.
According to a source close to the talks, "Brighton are prepared to hold out for a fee that reflects Baleba's potential and his importance to the team. They are not actively looking to sell, but if Manchester United meet their valuation, a deal could be completed before the transfer window closes."
The transfer window deadline is set for September 1, leaving United limited time to finalize the deal. Any agreement would likely see Baleba become United's third major signing of the summer, following the arrivals of forward Rasmus Højlund and goalkeeper Andre Onana.
