Carlos Baleba would reportedly ‘relish’ the chance to join Manchester United this summer after they failed in their 2025 pursuit.
That’s according to Samuel Luckhurst, who has verified that the Red Devils made enquiries over the youngster last year.
"It's the next step to overcome these rumours" 💬
Fabian Hurzeler has called for Carlos Baleba to forget about the rumours linking him with a move to Manchester United by performing to his best when Brighton travel to Old Trafford. pic.twitter.com/ySzJyl7ot6
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) October 24, 2025
Is Carlos Baleba still an option for United?
Although Baleba remains on INEOS’ shortlist in the lead-up to the transfer window, he isn’t as high as the likes of Elliot Anderson.
However, United are likely bracing themselves for disappointment in the chase for the Nottingham Forest star, as Manchester City are favourites to secure his signature and are currently planning an improved bid to try and get a deal over the line early doors.
Baleba does pose as a considerably cheaper option than the £100 million-valued England international, while his drop-off in form throughout 2025/2026 may have even led to Brighton and Hove Albion lowering their price tag.
"This guy has everything… he can go to any club" 🔥
The Super Sunday studio are full of praise for Carlos Baleba 🙌 pic.twitter.com/C7ehLS15m0
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 4, 2025
How Baleba has fared as of late
The 22-year-old’s season wasn’t poor by any means, but there’s an acceptance that his performances weren’t as consistent or eye-catching as they were in 2024/2025.
That term, Baleba made 34 Premier League appearances, 31 of which came from the off, and he totalled 2,673 minutes of action.
Last campaign, only 23 of the 31 matches he played were as a starter, and he accumulated 1,662 minutes on the pitch – albeit he did miss a handful of fixtures due to his African Cup of Nations participation.
Still, Rio Ferdinand believes the Douala native is a ‘serious talent’.
With a host of rival clubs in the market for a centre-midfielder this summer, United could well benefit from having a Premier League-proven player there, waiting to negotiate an Old Trafford move.
He is now valued at £47.4m by Transfermarkt, though it remains to be seen what kind of fee the Seagulls would be demanding.
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