-
Analysis
- 2 hours ago
Chelsea blow Man Utd out of the water with Carlos Baleba talks
Tom Weber
- 9 Feb 2026 18:55 GMT
- 4 min read
News
Chelsea have surged past Manchester United in the race to sign Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, according to a report.
The Cameroon international is one of the Premier League's most in-demand midfielders heading into the summer. Ahead of this season, Man Utd attempted a late swoop for Baleba, but they failed to break Brighton's resolve.
The interest from the Red Devils certainly did not leave the 22-year-old indifferent. Baleba agreed personal terms with Man Utd and clearly had his head turned, which impacted his performances.
Current ETV
Carlos Baleba
DM, M (C)
Brighton
Carlos Baleba
DM, M (C)
Brighton
ETV Range
€62.9M - €76.9M
However, the youngster bounced back with a good Africa Cup of Nations and is looking to make an impact in the final months of the campaign. Brighton certainly need him to perform as their results have fallen off a cliff in recent weeks.
With European football slipping away from the Seagulls, a summer exit of Baleba, which was already fully expected, is becoming almost inevitable. Man Utd remain keen on the midfielder, but they are set to be rivalled for his signature.
Chelsea also want Baleba
According to TEAMtalk, Chelsea and PSG are also firmly in the race for Baleba, with both clubs stepping up their pursuit of him in recent weeks. Talks with his representatives over a summer deal have already been held.
Champions League football will be crucial in determining who ultimately secures Baleba's signature. It is claimed that Chelsea and PSG are currently best-placed to sign him, but this will surely change if Man Utd qualify for Europe's premier competition.
Last summer's discussions with the player were seen as laying the groundwork for a future transfer so that once Baleba becomes available, he will choose Old Trafford over other destinations.
Man Utd are confident that if push comes to shove, he will honour the commitment made to the club last year when he was thrilled at the prospect of joining the Red Devils.
Football transfer news headlines today
TRANSFER RUMOURS: Arsenal want Ndiaye as contract offer submitted
Arsenal eye €75m deal for Gabriel Martinelli replacement
Liam Rosenior gives green light to €115m Chelsea transfer
Celtic submit contract offer to FIRST summer signing
The FootballTransfers app
Check out FootballTransfers' new app for all of football's big storylines, transfer rumours and exclusive news in one convenient place directly on your mobile device.
The FootballTransfers app is available on Google Play and in the Apple App Store. Download here:
