Manchester United Keep Baleba on Radar Despite January Stalemate
Manchester United have renewed internal discussions over a potential move for Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, but a January deal remains unlikely as the Seagulls continue to hold firm on their valuation.
The Red Devils explored the conditions of a possible winter transfer after failing to land the 22 year old last summer, when Brighton refused to entertain offers north of £100 million. Ruben Amorim remains keen to add an athletic defensive midfielder, and Baleba continues to fit the profile United believe could transform their midfield base.
United’s interest is not new, nor has it faded. The club spent around £230 million in the summer window, but Baleba would have significantly pushed that figure higher had Brighton softened their stance. Amorim views the Cameroon international as a long term anchor, capable of shielding the defence while driving play forward.
Baleba’s season has unfolded under steady scrutiny. He has featured 19 times in all competitions, starting 16 matches but completing the full 90 minutes only twice. Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler acknowledged earlier in the campaign that the weight of transfer speculation can affect a young player, stressing the importance of managing emotion and expectation during periods of intense attention.
From a broader perspective, Baleba remains a core part of Brighton’s medium term plans. He is under contract until 2029, giving the club a strong negotiating position and little incentive to sell mid-season. For United, the search for midfield reinforcements is part of a wider strategy rather than a short term fix.
The atmosphere around the situation has been one of patience rather than urgency. Brighton have continued to rotate Baleba carefully, while United monitor his development from a distance. There has been no dramatic escalation, only steady background movement typical of a player viewed as a future cornerstone rather than an emergency signing.
There have been no formal bids this month, and no breakthrough moments behind the scenes. Sky Sports report that while United have checked on Baleba’s availability, negotiations are not expected to progress in January. Brighton’s stance is clear, and any meaningful talks are more likely to be revisited in the summer.
Baleba himself has remained publicly composed. He has acknowledged the pressure that came with heightened expectations this season, but has framed it as part of his development, insisting his focus remains on regaining peak performance levels with Brighton.
As the season progresses, United are expected to widen their midfield shortlist. Alongside Baleba, Amorim’s recruitment team are tracking Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton, and Joao Gomes, with younger prospects Ayyoub Bouaddi and Christos Mouzakitis also under observation. The club’s priority for 2026 is clear: at least one elite central midfielder.
For now, United’s attention shifts back to the pitch. A league trip to Elland Road against Leeds United awaits as they look to respond to a disappointing draw with Wolves. Off the field, the Baleba pursuit remains alive, just paused, with the sense that this is a deal measured in timing rather than desire.