Baleba bid signals United confidence

Manchester United press ahead with Carlos Baleba bid, applying a familiar tactic from the Bryan Mbeumo chase.

United uses Mbeumo playbook again in Baleba pursuit

Manchester United are pressing forward with a pursuit of Carlos Baleba, with talks reported to be constructive despite Brighton's high asking price above £100 million. United has already spent close to £200 million this window on three new signings, a level of activity that invites scrutiny of the club’s budgeting and strategy. The Athletic’s David Ornstein notes that several United players have reached out to Baleba to outline the club’s project and ambitions, a tactic described in relation to the club’s previous pursuit of Bryan Mbeumo. Onana, a fellow Cameroonian, is mentioned as part of United’s broader narrative to attract players who fit a growing Cameroonian thread at Old Trafford.

Brighton’s market position means this deal won’t be wrapped up quickly. The price tag, plus Brighton’s willingness to hold firm, could extend negotiations beyond a swift conclusion. United’s approach—using player contact to persuade and shape Baleba’s decision—reflects a broader, long game rather than a rushed hijack. The move also signals how United, under ownership linked to Ineos, is willing to blend patience with pressure to secure top targets. If successful, Baleba would reinforce United’s bid to stay competitive in European football, but the risk remains that a very high price could ripple through the squad’s economics and affect future deals.

Highlights

The Baleba pursuit will test United’s finance and patience in equal measure.