Manchester United are stepping up their pursuit of Carlos Baleba, with a source claiming the Brighton midfielder will submit a transfer request in January to force a move to Old Trafford. United sees Baleba as the catalyst to fix their midfield woes and are preparing for a high-stakes negotiation.
Baleba carries a hefty valuation — around €100 million or more. Brighton have resisted earlier approaches, holding firm that he’s not for sale. However, signs now point to him trying to force Brighton’s hand.
Why United Wants Baleba — and Needs Him
United’s midfield currently lacks bite, energy, and younger legs. Their reliance on veterans or interim options has left gaps in transition, pressing, and defensive cover. Reports suggest that Baleba fits the athletic, box-to-box mold that Ruben Amorim covets.
Baleba’s strengths include intense pressing, stamina to shuttle between boxes, defensive duels, and the ability to drive the ball forward. He represents the dynamic core of United. Given that the club invested heavily in attacking players in recent windows, the midfield has become a glaring weak spot.
If Baleba joins, United could pivot their system, use him in a double pivot, or deploy him as a six with license to push forward — giving Bruno Fernandes more freedom. He would likely become central to their buildup and defensive balance.
Baleba’s Situation — Why He Might Push to Leave
The interest from United has reportedly caught Baleba’s attention deeply. Allegedly, he has become impatient with Brighton’s refusal to budge earlier and feels the time has come to push for a change. His agent is said to be gearing up for talks with Brighton in November.
He signed with Brighton until 2028 — Brighton thus has no urgency to sell — but mounting pressure from player, agent, and market interest might force their hand.
If Baleba hands in his request, it might spark a bidding war and test how far United will stretch financially. Brighton may try to resist, but the club has sold top talents before when pressure built. United must decide whether to smash their budget to land him in January or wait until summer, when terms may shift.
As featured on ManUNews.com
