Contact Continues Without Fresh Movement

Manchester United have maintained regular contact with Carlos Baleba’s camp since last summer, continuing to track the Brighton midfielder as one of their main targets heading into 2026. However, no fresh bid or direct talks with Brighton have taken place this month, despite persistent speculation surrounding his future.

Notably, this saga stretches back considerably further than most transfer sagas. United first held talks with Baleba’s entourage last August, reportedly securing an agreement on personal terms even then. However, Brighton’s valuation, initially set well above £100 million, proved an insurmountable barrier at the time. That verbal understanding between player and club has reportedly remained valid ever since, even as United pursued other midfield targets.

This summer alone, United completed deals for Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans, addressing immediate midfield needs while leaving Baleba on their longer-term radar. Brighton’s asking price has reportedly softened somewhat, dropping closer to £50 million given his inconsistent form and a recent ankle ligament injury that disrupted his preparations for the new campaign.

Brighton Determined To Keep Their Man

Still, Brighton’s stance remains defiant. The south coast club insists they intend to keep Baleba this season, having already lost key midfield talents like Moises Caicedo and Yves Bissouma to Premier League rivals in recent years. Manager Fabian Hurzeler has previously made clear he isn’t afraid of losing players, framing Brighton’s development model as bigger than any single individual.

Interestingly, Baleba’s camp has reportedly reached back out to United on separate occasions this year, suggesting the player’s desire for a move to Old Trafford hasn’t diminished despite the stalled negotiations. Teammates including Bryan Mbeumo and Bruno Fernandes have reportedly encouraged him privately about life at United, adding a personal dimension to the ongoing pursuit.

For now, though, both clubs remain at arm’s length regarding any formal transfer. United continue monitoring the situation closely, according to Goal, waiting for the right moment to potentially revisit negotiations before deadline day arrives.

Readers following Manchester United’s ongoing midfield search can find continued coverage on KCPredict as this saga continues developing.