Negotiations between Manchester United and Brighton for Baleba are progressing positively. The current offer from the Old Trafford club is valued at approximately 60 million pounds (81 million USD), with potential add-ons of 5 million pounds (7 million USD) depending on certain clauses. This figure is still slightly below Brighton's valuation, but both parties are working towards finding common ground.

Bruno Fernandes (left) challenges Carlos Baleba during the Brighton versus Manchester United Premier League match at American Express Stadium, Brighton, England, on 24/5. Photo: AFP

Baleba has been a long-term target for Manchester United. The Manchester club first pursued the Cameroon midfielder in summer 2025, when Brighton valued him at over 100 million pounds (136 million USD). At that time, Manchester United was prepared to pay around 75 million pounds (102 million USD) but could not convince Brighton.

Following an inconsistent season for Baleba, the 22-year-old midfielder's price has significantly decreased. This development has allowed Manchester United to re-enter negotiations, hoping to finalize the deal at a lower fee than a year ago.

Baleba joined Brighton from Lille in summer 2023 and has played 112 matches for the club. Last season, he appeared in 35 matches across all competitions, despite missing some games while representing Cameroon at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Manchester United sees Baleba as a suitable fit for the midfield rebuild under coach Michael Carrick. The club values the left-footed midfielder's ability to cover space, win back possession, and distribute the ball. Baleba can also play at left-back when needed.

Last season was not Baleba's best period at Brighton. He only played the full 90 minutes three times in the Premier League and was substituted in 15 matches, including four times immediately after halftime. However, Manchester United remains confident in his impressive performances during his first two seasons in England.

One of Baleba's standout matches last season was the 3-0 victory against Chelsea. He dispossessed goalkeeper Robert Sanchez inside the penalty area, creating a dangerous opportunity for Jack Hinshelwood. Baleba then started three consecutive matches.

The midfielder's form also improved when he returned to play for Cameroon at the CAN. Manchester United scouted Baleba in all five of the national team's matches and noted his positive performances.

Baleba is currently recovering from an ankle ligament injury. However, this issue is not considered serious, and he is expected to be sidelined for a maximum of three weeks. The injury is not an obstacle to his potential move to Old Trafford.

If completed, Baleba would become the third central midfielder signed by Manchester United this summer. Previously, the club acquired Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa for 35 million pounds (47 million USD) and Andrey Santos from Chelsea for 48 million pounds (65 million USD).

Manchester United had also reached an agreement with Atalanta for midfielder Ederson but withdrew after discovering issues related to the Brazil international's knee. The club also pursued Elliot Anderson, but the English midfielder later chose to join Manchester City. Mateus Fernandes was another target but moved from West Ham to Tottenham.

Manchester United is prioritizing midfield reinforcement after Casemiro left the club as a free agent. Manuel Ugarte is sidelined with a knee injury sustained while playing for Uruguay at the 2026 World Cup, while Mason Mount also missed the last two pre-season friendly matches.

If Baleba arrives, Carrick will have an additional option alongside Tielemans, Santos, Kobbie Mainoo, and Bruno Fernandes.