Brighton have released a 25-word update on Carlos Baleba after reports emerged claiming that Manchester United had made contact for a potential transfer.
Manchester United kicked off the summer transfer window on a strong note by securing Matheus Cunha from Wolves on the opening day. They also added promising young defender Diego Leon to the squad.
Following prolonged negotiations, the Reds successfully brought in Bryan Mbeumo, with all three new signings currently part of Ruben Amorim’s squad for the U.S. tour.
Attention now turns to finalising a deal for RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko, which is expected to wrap up soon, rounding out United’s revamped attacking line.
Meanwhile, the club remains active in the market and is targeting a midfielder before the window closes. Reports indicate that United have initiated contact with Brighton’s Carlos Baleba over a possible move.
Brighton release 25-word update on Baleba
Despite several reliable reports claiming that United had contacted Brighton over a potential deal for Baleba, their chief executive Paul Barber denied this.
“There’s always going to be interest in our players,” Barber said when asked about the reports surrounding Baleba during a fans’ forum on Wednesday.
“United have not been in touch with me. Speculation is speculation. Carlos is a fantastic talent.”
David Ornstein clarified that United’s contact to the Seagulls came through intermediaries. Reports elsewhere have stated that Baleba is open to discussions with the Old Trafford club.
Any potential deal would involve a major outlay for United, with Baleba valued at £87 million but an eventual price could end up being higher than that figure.
United’s desire is a good sign
United have already dealt with one of the most stern negotiators in the Premier League when they signed Mbeumo from Brentford last month.
Brighton have a similar reputation and have made some major sales in recent years. Moises Caicedo was sold to Chelsea for £115 million before Baleba emerged as his replacement.
They know how to work and United are clearly aware that signing Baleba is not going to be an easy feat heading into the final weeks of the window.
But the desire is there and it is clear that the club know that they must strengthen in that position before the transfer window concludes.
Make sure to follow UtdDistrict on X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok to never miss out on any of our Manchester United content. Our podcast, What the Devil?, is streamed live every Thursday at 12:30 pm (BST) on the United View YouTube channel.