Man Utd make Carlos Baleba approach - David Ornstein

Tom Weber
Tom Weber
  • Updated: 6 Aug 2025 18:53 BST
  • 4 min read
Carlos Baleba, Brighton, 2024/25
© IMAGO

Manchester United have made contact with Brighton over a deal for Carlos Baleba, according to David Ornstein and Fabrizio Romano.

Article continues under the video

The Red Devils are looking to have a blockbuster end to the transfer window. Man Utd are thought to be on the verge of completing the signing of RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko, and that will not be the end of their business this summer.

Despite the fact that €160 million has been spent without meaningful outgoings, and with Sesko likely to cost up to €90m, Man Utd are looking for more recruits.

Current ETV
Player image Carlos Baleba
Carlos Baleba

DM, M (C)

Brighton logo

Brighton

Carlos Baleba
Carlos Baleba

DM, M (C)

Brighton

Brighton

€55.3M

ETV Range

€49.8M - €60.9M

One area Ruben Amorim has been keen to strengthen ever since he arrived at Old Trafford is the midfield. The Portuguese wants more dynamism and energy in his engine room, and Man Utd are now seeking out potential options.

According to David Ornstein of The Athletic and Fabrizio Romano, Man Utd have made contact with Brighton to sound out a potential deal for Carlos Baleba.

Man Utd make Baleba approach

Signed as a replacement for Moises Caicedo after his move to Chelsea in 2023, Baleba has proved a worthy successor, and this hasn't gone unnoticed, with the Cameroon international regularly linked with bigger clubs.

Man Utd have now tried to explore the feasibility of a transfer, but Brighton have made it clear that the 21-year-old is not for sale this summer. The upcoming days are set to be crucial in determining whether there could potentially be an unlikely opening for Man Utd, or if they will have to abandon their pursuit.

Carlos Baleba
© IMAGO - Carlos Baleba

Ornstein also confirms that Man Utd are unlikely to be in a position to spend big after Sesko unless they manage to secure a raft of big-money sales. Baleba is under contract until 2028, so Brighton are under no pressure to sell.

Man Utd have also been heavily linked with Atalanta midfielder Ederson in recent months, but he too could prove difficult to land. The Bergamo club are reluctant to let him leave after already losing Mateo Retegui, and amid the ongoing talks with Inter over Ademola Lookman.

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