Manchester United keep fighting for the signature of their summer transfer target Carlos Baleba
Manchester United continue to assess future options as they quietly build the foundations for a long-term rebuild under Ruben Amorim. The club’s hierarchy have started planning their next major signings.
One name on their 2026 wishlist is Carlos Baleba. The Brighton midfielder, only 21 years old, has become one of the Premier League’s brightest young players this season. His rise has been steady, marked by power, precision, and composure.
According to Sky Sports, as relayed by Fichajes, United have identified Baleba as a key signing for the summer of 2026. The club see him as a potential anchor for their midfield evolution, and they intend to keep targeting him in upcoming transfer windows. He possesses raw athleticism and control of the ball.
Brighton, however, refuse to negotiate easily, and they have placed a value of around €100 million on him. That decision shows they are determined to retain him and believe in his market worth. Executives at Old Trafford believe the investment could pay off in the long run, given how fast he is developing.
Baleba has shown impressive growth at Brighton since he joined from Lille. He has adapted quickly to English football and uses his physical strength and sharp tactical sense to dominate games. He drives the ball from deep positions and gives Brighton a new edge in attack.
Brighton rely on him as a vital part of their project and plan to keep him until he reaches full maturity. The south coast club treat him as too important to lose early, and his potential keeps rising with every performance.
Interestingly, we reported earlier that Manchester United have made Juventus star Kenan Yildiz a priority target for January. That update shows how Amorim plans to strengthen the team over several transfer windows. With Roy Keane calling for someone like Diego Simeone to replace Amorim if results do not improve, United’s future could still take a few unexpected turns.
Can Baleba be the midfield answer?
Carlos Baleba brings qualities Manchester United have missed. He shows strength in duels, calmness under pressure, and the courage to move the ball forward. He protects the defence and starts attacks with confidence, fitting perfectly into Amorim’s system.
Next to Kobbie Mainoo, Brighton’s central defensive midfielder could form a partnership built on energy and control. That balance will help United solve one of their most pressing issues under Amorim.
Still, there are challenges in the deal. Brighton demand £100 million for Baleba, which may force United to rethink their approach. Their current financial situation limits how far they can go. Reports say Lille included a 15 per cent sell-on clause, which could push the price even higher. Baleba’s recent dip in form has raised concerns about the timing of a move. Meanwhile, Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain monitor him closely and may raise the competition.
Even so, United continue to pursue him with serious intent. Baleba fits their vision of a young, strong, and adaptable midfielder. His signing may take time, but United clearly plan their midfield around him. Brighton hold control for now, yet United’s patience and persistence might eventually turn the situation in their favour.