Manchester United are exploring a move for Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba before the World Cup this summer.
The Red Devils are long-term admirers of the Cameroon international, and they were first interested in signing him last summer.
United continue to view him as a ‘top target’. Sky Sports report that the club have already done a lot of groundwork on the player.
The hierarchy would be keen to get Baleba ‘before the World Cup’.
Baleba could be signed for a knockdown price.
The former Lille man had a solid 2024/25 campaign with the Seagulls. This contributed to Brighton’s staggering £115 million price tag for his services last summer.
However, Baleba has since struggled for form and consistency. The 22-year-old has undoubtedly been hampered by the speculation, judging by his seasonal stats.
He managed 34 passes per Premier League game last season with six duels won. He also made six recoveries per outing alongside a couple of successful tackles.
In comparison, he averages just 20 passes per appearance this term. He has won three duels per outing alongside three recoveries. He has won just one tackle per game.
Baleba’s performances have slightly improved over the last month. He is probably preparing for a big-money switch, which has coincided with the upturn in league form.
United firmly believe they can purchase him for around £50m this summer. Their valuation seems pretty much right for a player who has looked a shadow of himself this season.
Baleba still has huge potential, and the Red Devils seem to believe he can succeed Casemiro. We won’t be surprised if they pursue a deal before the World Cup in North America.
A strong showing by Baleba for Cameroon at the global tournament could trigger more European interest and a bidding war. United may seek to avoid it with an early transfer.
Stats from Sofascore
