Manchester United have reportedly reignited their efforts to sign Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba during the January transfer window, despite the Seagulls' hefty valuation of over £100 million.
United's Renewed Midfield Search
The Premier League giants initially opened talks with Brighton for the Cameroon international back in August 2025, following a summer focused on rebuilding their attack. However, negotiations were swiftly shelved when it became apparent Brighton would not lower their asking price.
The need for reinforcements in the engine room has only intensified at Old Trafford as 2026 begins. The impending expiry of Casemiro's contract, coupled with ongoing speculation surrounding the futures of key players Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo, has made midfield a critical area for investment.
Baleba Among Shortlist of Targets
According to reports, Baleba remains on a shortlist of potential signings that also includes Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson and Crystal Palace star Adam Wharton. While all three were considered difficult acquisitions this month, Sky Sports now states that United have 'explored the conditions' required to bring the 21-year-old to Manchester in the coming weeks.
Nevertheless, a transfer in January is viewed as unlikely. Brighton are determined to retain their player until at least the end of the current season. Manager Ruben Amorim reinforced this stance last Friday, stating: 'The transfer window is not going to change. We have no conversation in this moment to have any change in the squad.'
Form Dip and AFCON Duty
Baleba's own form has been a talking point this season, with his performances failing to reach the impressive heights of the previous campaign that originally attracted United's interest. The midfielder is currently away on international duty with Cameroon at the Africa Cup of Nations, where he is joined by United's Bryan Mbeumo – a player who reportedly encouraged Baleba to join him at the club last year.
Baleba himself has addressed his dip in form, denying that transfer speculation is the cause. 'I don't think it affected me,' he said. 'But I had a lot of pressure on me... Did I put too much pressure on myself? Yes, I think so, but I think that's good.'
While a January deal for the £100m-rated star appears a distant prospect, Manchester United's revived interest signals a clear intent to strengthen their midfield, potentially laying the groundwork for a major summer move.
