United eyes Baleba move after contact

Manchester United weigh a potential Baleba deal as a €120 million price tag raises questions about the club’s transfer strategy

United push Baleba move after contact signals high price tag

Manchester United are among the clubs keeping a close watch on Carlos Baleba, the Brighton midfielder tipped as a potential recruit this window. A report from ESPN places a transfer price around €120 million (£104 million), a figure that would mark a bold investment for a 21 year old in a crowded midfield market. So far, there is no concrete bid, and Brighton have not signalled a willingness to sell at that level. Fabrizio Romano reported that United have maintained contact with Baleba’s agents about contract details and salary, with both sides hoping to move forward but no formal agreement yet.

The Baleba pursuit highlights United’s ongoing emphasis on mobility and pace in attack. After signing a mix of attackers this summer, the club appears to be testing whether a single high value addition can redefine the front line or if a broader, multi piece plan is required. The market price attached to Baleba acts as a benchmark for what clubs are willing to spend to secure dynamic midfield options and could influence how other targets are evaluated. The lack of a concrete deal underlines the risk that a big price tag may outpace practical timelines, especially with the window closing on September 1. In this context, the role of the recruitment team becomes crucial as they balance financial discipline with the pressure to deliver immediate impact on the pitch.

Highlights

The coming days will reveal how bold United are willing to be in this rebuild.