Man Utd Set Sights on Brighton's Rising Midfield Star

Representatives acting for Manchester United have reached out to Brighton & Hove Albion to signal their interest in acquiring midfielder Carlos Baleba, according to recent reports.

Securing a new striker remains United's immediate focus, with the club currently ahead of Newcastle United in pursuing RB Leipzig's Benjamin Šeško after the Slovenian player indicated his preference for a summer move to Old Trafford.

Should they complete that transfer, United are anticipated to strengthen Ruben Amorim's midfield roster, which presently includes Casemiro, Manuel Ugarte, Toby Collyer, Kobbie Mainoo and, in a supporting role, captain Bruno Fernandes.

The Athletic reports that approaches have been made regarding 21-year-old Baleba, who is rapidly cementing his reputation as one of the premier young defensive midfielders in global football.

It's emphasized that United's pursuit remains unofficial—all communication has occurred through third-party representatives—but Baleba is becoming a primary target for the Red Devils should they decide to recruit a midfielder.

Brighton, meanwhile, are reluctant to part with the Cameroon international, and their substantial valuation of Baleba has made it clear to all parties that securing his services for United would prove challenging.

Speaking at a supporters' forum gathering, Brighton chief executive Paul Barber dismissed rumors surrounding Baleba's potential departure.

"Manchester United haven't contacted me directly so, from that perspective... rumors remain rumors," he informed the audience.

"We will consistently, as I mentioned previously, aim to ensure we transfer our top players at the appropriate moment, not only for the individual but also for our benefit, and should we proceed with any player sale it would be with the intention of providing Fabian [Hürzeler, manager] with a highly competitive squad regardless of circumstances, but our preference is to retain our finest players.

"Carlos represents exceptional, exceptional ability. He has numerous years before him and we anticipate he will remain here for many seasons ahead, though it's naturally dependent on the unpredictable nature of football's ever-changing landscape."

Brighton invested £23.2 million ($31 million) to acquire Baleba from Lille during summer 2023 and secured him on a five-year deal that also features an additional 12-month option, ensuring the Seagulls face no urgency to accept any offers.