Carlos Baleba in action for Brighton against Everton (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Manchester United are still reportedly looking for a move for Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The Red Devils are keen on the Cameroon international having already targeted him over the summer, although Brighton have insisted he is not for sale.
Speaking on YouTube, Romano explained that Man Utd view Baleba as a “perfect signing”, and this remains a situation to watch for the summer of 2026.
So it seems pretty clear that we can expect United to replace Baleba, although he’s unlikely to be available in January, so he might be one to watch next summer.
Watch Romano’s video post on Baleba below, in which he also suggests that Brighton wouldn’t hesitate to wait for more clubs to potentially join the race for the 21-year-old…
Fabrizio Romano on Carlos Baleba’s move to Manchester United
“(Ruben) Amorim did a lot of lobbying for Baleba in the summer transfer window,” Romano said.
“Amorim saw Baleba as a perfect target for Man United in terms of intensity in midfield in terms of skills in terms of potential in terms of knowledge of the Premier League.
“He was seen as a perfect signing by people at the club and by the manager. Brighton closed the doors on that possibility.
“In January, at the moment, Brighton don’t want to send a player. So it remains a difficult deal for January for the summer. We will see what happens there because my United could be there and Brighton think that maybe other clubs could also join the race for a talented midfielder like Carlos Baleba.
“So, of course, a situation to watch, also because usually Baleba or another Man United are looking for an important midfielder to add to the team in 2026. We will see what kind of opportunities there will be in January or possibly in the summer transfer window. But midfielder will be a crucial position to occupy for Manchester United next year 2026.
Baleba wanted Man United transfer
David Ornstein reported in the summer that Baleba was open to a move to United, so that shouldn’t be a problem if they try to revive the deal in the future.
MUFC fans will be hoping their club can stay in pole position for this talented young player, but we imagine we’ll also see other big names join the race for his signature.
Baleba looks to be Brighton’s next big sell-out having already profited from stars like Moises Caicedo, Marc Cucurella, Leandro Trossard and Joao Pedro.
