Bryan Mbeumo is playing an integral role in helping Manchester United land Carlos Baleba
Manchester United’s season has shown a sense of unpredictability. Amid the mixed results, one figure quietly takes on a bigger role than expected. Bryan Mbeumo, their £71 million summer signing, plays more than just the role of a winger, finding his feet. His growing bond with Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba during Cameroon’s World Cup qualifiers creates fresh whispers inside Old Trafford.
Amidst all these, English news outlet The Sun has reported that Mbeumo is encouraging Baleba to think about a future in Manchester. He has described life at a club of United’s size with both pride and warmth. Their friendship is increasing off the pitch, with Mbeumo acting like an older brother. The United attacker is guiding the younger Cameroon midfielder through the highs and lows of international duty.
After we reported earlier that Manchester United will keep fighting for the signature of their summer transfer target, Baleba, Mbeumo now steps in to help his club’s pursuit. He has shielded Baleba after Cameroon’s defeat to Cape Verde, showing his protective instinct. People close to them believe Mbeumo’s influence is guiding Baleba’s decision, though any move may wait until next summer.
United stay interested, while Brighton, unwilling to lose their holding midfielder, set his price at over £100 million. We also reported earlier that Brighton are unlikely to cash in on Carlos Baleba, and the club’s stance remains firm despite growing interest. United’s scouts keep tracking the 21-year-old defensive midfielder closely, as Amorim looks for a dependable pivot partner for Bruno Fernandes in his 3-4-2-1 setup.
Baleba’s appeal and the challenges ahead
United’s interest in Baleba grows from what he already offers. The club views him as a dynamic and press-resistant midfielder who adds defensive solidity and energy to the centre. He carries the ball with purpose, wins duels, and recovers possession with ease. These qualities show both the midfielder’s stamina and calmness.
Those inside Carrington view him as a long-term solution for a midfield that lacks consistency and drive. Yet the deal stays tough. Brighton have set a high asking price and includes a sell-on clause owed to Lille, which have made any sort of negotiations difficult. United have been keeping tabs on other profiles as well, but they have the Cameroon international at the top of their wishlist, as they need a proper replacement for Casemiro.
Still, Baleba’s mix of strength, technical control, and composure under pressure will help him slide naturally into Amorim’s high-intensity setup. United need a midfielder of his type, one who brings authority with the ball and rhythm without it. The price may stay steep, but his quality will still attract the Red Devils. If Mbeumo keeps persuading his teammate, the story between Baleba and United might move forward sooner than expected. At least, United will hope that it forces Baleba to create pressure on Brighton.