Manchester United are planning to catch rivals Man City off guard in the race for Brighton’s Carlos Baleba.
Man United to fight Man City for star midfielder
Manchester Utd have made a decisive push for Brighton star Carlos Baleba, leaving Manchester City stunned. In the meantime, City had been preparing a summer 2026 bid for the play-maker. Head coach Pep Guardiola views him as a player of the future in the midfield.
Baleba, alongside Adam Wharton, was high on City’s shortlist after a standout season. But, Man Utd’s swift action has changed the script. Ruben Amorim is keen to restore United’s status as a PL powerhouse. He has urged the board to show ambition, and Baleba fits the bill perfectly.
The midfielder’s mix of defensive steel and creative vision makes him a top talent. He might be the one who could transform the Red Devils’ core. United are well aware of City and Liverpool’s interest. That said, they’ve accelerated talks to get a deal over the line before the window closes.
Building a strong midfield
Baleba’s signing would be the latest in a string of high-profile arrivals at Old Trafford this summer. Bryan Mbeumo’s 20-goal season earned him a move from Brentford. Additionally, Matheus Cunha brings firepower from Wolves. RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko has also joined, creating a front line that promises plenty of goals.
Adding Baleba into the mix would give Utd the midfield they’ve craved for. They need someone to win back possession, feed Bruno Fernandes and Amad Diallo. In his two years with Brighton, he has played 34 games, scored three goals since joining then from Lille. He has helped the Seagulls achieve an incredible eighth-place finish. His £120m valuation would likely break the current PL record fee paid for Moises Caicedo.
For United, the price reflects the value of a player who could be a key for the next decade. If this move comes off, it would be more than just be a transfer move. It could be the spark that powers Man United back to the top of the EPL.
As featured on ManCityNews.comAs featured on ManUNews.com
