Carlos Baleba ‘approves Manchester United move’ with Brighton braced for second bid
Manchester United have reportedly prepared a second bid for Brighton’s rising star Carlos Baleba, following the rejection of an initial player-plus-cash offer. The proposed deal—turning heads across the Premier League—saw Toby Collyer offered as part-exchange, but Brighton immediately rebuffed it, tagging Baleba with a lofty £105 million valuation. Critically, Baleba himself is said to be open to the move, potentially softening the Seagulls’ stance.
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Brighton’s Firm Stance & High Valuation
Brighton’s board have made their intentions crystal clear: Baleba is not for sale this summer. According to insiders, they’ve slapped an asking price of around £105 million, with some reports placing the number higher—upwards of £115 million—surpassing even the Moisés Caicedo benchmark.
The variation in reported valuations—ranging between £104m (€120m), £105m, and £115m+—highlights the speculative nature of current transfers, where media outlets offer differing figures based on sources and currencies.
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Has Baleba Actually “Approved” the Move?
Reports suggest Baleba hasn’t blocked the move—his camp is open to discussions. While Brighton remain unyielding, this subtle shift in tone could embolden United to try again.
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Manchester United: Determined—and Cash-Strapped?
Despite their mega‑spending spree—Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko (≈ £140 million total)—United remain keen on midfield reinforcement. A transfer of this magnitude would likely break their club record, but they’re reportedly pushing ahead with talks and remain undeterred.
Their interest isn’t just tactical: Rio Ferdinand publicly urged spending “big” on Baleba, calling him the ideal “Amorim-type” midfielder—energetic, athletic, tactically sound, and proven in the Premier League. Meanwhile, Fabrizio Romano confirms United’s persistence despite Brighton’s resistance.
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Brighton’s Response: Cautious, yet Prepared
Brighton CEO Paul Barber forces a tone of calm: United have not made direct contact with him, and for now, it’s all speculation. He reiterated that Brighton does not want to sell its top talents prematurely.
Still, Brighton are preparing a succession plan. They’ve scouted replacements—Diego Gómez and Malick Yalcouye—and are ready to elevate youth products like Jack Hinshelwood, Matt O’Riley, Mats Wieffer, and Yasin Ayari, should Baleba depart.
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Valuation Insights & Brighton’s Transfer Model
Brighton have built a reputation for nurturing stars and selling for premium prices: Caicedo (→ Chelsea, £115m), Cucurella and Mac Allister (both profitable departures). With that track record—and a strong financial foundation—they hold no urgency to cash in on Baleba.
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Obstacles: Price, Timing & Premier League Rival Interest
Baleba’s contract runs until June 2028, positioning Brighton securely in negotiations. Coupled with a massive price tag, United face a tough climb.
Moreover, competition exists: Manchester City are also admirers, although their calculus may vary with Pep’s tactical needs.
With the window closing soon, United may pivot elsewhere if progress stalls—this summer or next, depending on feasibility.
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Baleba’s Rising Trajectory
Baleba, a 21-year-old Cameroonian midfielder, has blossomed since his 2023 move from Lille (~£23m). Known for his stamina, ball-winning, dribbling, and passing range, he’s a versatile hybrid of intensity and technique.
Last season, he notched 3 goals and 1 assist in 34 Premier League appearances, earning plaudits and Brighton’s “Young Player of the Season.” His defensive output—tackles, interceptions—ranks him among the league’s elite.
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What’s Next?
United could make a sweeter second bid, combining significant cash and more enticing elements.
Brighton may hold firm, knowing they can ride Baleba’s growth—or leverage a bigger sale next season.
Baleba’s willingness opens the door, but practical hurdles—financial and strategic—remain steep.
With less than a month left in the summer window, decisions will crystallize fast.
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Conclusion: A Tantalizing Transfer Standoff
The story of Carlos Baleba approving a United move while Brighton brace for a second bid is a compelling example of modern football’s balance between football ambition and financial appetite.
Brighton have every right to hold the cards: long contract, internal alternatives, and no urgent need to sell. United, on the other hand, see in Baleba a transformative midfielder, capable of revitalizing their engine room under Ruben Amorim.
Whether this saga ends in a blockbuster summer deal, a transfer next year, or no deal at all—it’s one to watch as the window ticks down.
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