Amorim blocks United swap for Baleba amid high price

Manchester United pursue Carlos Baleba while Brighton resist a swap, valuing the midfielder at around £100 million.

Amorim blocks United swap for Baleba amid high price

Manchester United have shown interest in Carlos Baleba from Brighton and Hove Albion, with intermediaries reportedly in talks to explore how a deal could work. After finalizing a deal for Benjamin Sesko earlier in the week, United are looking at other options to strengthen the midfield and balance a busy schedule. The Athletic’s David Ornstein indicated that United contacted Brighton via intermediaries to gauge the conditions of a potential Baleba deal, while Brighton are reluctant to sell before the season kicks off. Baleba’s value is pegged at about £100 million in discussions, a figure that tests the club’s willingness to deal at a moment when the calendar is about to turn to the Premier League.

On Friday the Manchester Evening News reported that one current United star will not be used as a makeweight in a Baleba swap. Toby Collyer, a young midfielder who came through Brighton’s academy, is not expected to be part of any deal and could instead depart on loan. Collyer spoke during United's pre season tour about his desire to play as many games as possible and his willingness to sit down with the manager to map out his development, whether that means staying at United or going on loan.

The debate over Baleba highlights how big clubs mix price, timing and form in a crowded market. A swap deal lets a buyer control cost, but it depends on the other club accepting the terms and the value a young player can deliver later. Brighton’s £100 million valuation signals a clear bargaining position and a readiness to wait if a deal cannot meet their price. For United, the episode shows patience can be as important as speed, especially when a player’s immediate impact is not guaranteed.

This case also exposes how intermediaries shape early negotiations, turning whispers into formal chatter. It matters that the deal would hinge on Brighton’s willingness to part with a prized asset while United weighs short term needs against long term development. The situation leaves room for a pause rather than a quick signing, with the season opener looming and the market still unsettled.

Highlights

The market for young midfielders remains fluid as clubs balance budgets and dreams.