Romano confirms ‘wonderful’ EPL star ‘would love’ to join Man Utd – Personal terms already agreed

Fabrizio Romano insists Carlos Baleba would be ‘so keen’ to sign for Manchester United, who remain reluctant to pursue him.

This summer, the Red Devils are primarily fixated on revamping the midfield department. Following Casemiro’s departure and Manuel Ugarte’s long-term injury, Kobbie Mainoo is the only central midfielder left at Michael Carrick’s disposal.

Ederson should soon complete his £39 million transfer from Atalanta, but another two additions are required.

Carlos Baleba still keen on joining Man United

In recent weeks, Man Utd’s hopes of signing Elliot Anderson and Mateus Fernandes vanished, as the Englishman joined Manchester City, while the Portuguese ended up at Tottenham Hotspur. INEOS have already moved on, turning their attention to alternative targets.

In the latest video uploaded on his official YouTube channel, Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano confirmed United will launch an attempt to sign Aurelien Tchouameni from Real Madrid, although it depends on his availability and willingness to reduce his salary.

The transfer expert also reveals Andrey Santos as a serious target for MUFC, confirming that Chelsea would be open to doing business if they were to receive a satisfying offer for the 22-year-old Brazilian.

Finally, Romano discusses Baleba’s situation, insisting that the Brighton star ‘would love’ to join Man Utd.

The Red Devils considered the Cameroonian their priority target last summer, and the two parties even reached an agreement on personal terms. However, INEOS were warded off by Brighton’s asking price, which exceeded £100 million.

But as Romano explains, Man Utd have yet to rekindle their interest in Baleba, who remains in the background while they continue to focus on other targets.

Should Man Utd revive their interest in Baleba?

Last summer, Baleba was coming off a spectacular campaign. His ‘absolutely wonderful’ performances earned him major plaudits, and somewhat justified Brighton’s immense asking price.

However, the Cameroonian international suffered a dip in form during the 2025/26 campaign. His head coach, Fabian Hurzeler, suggested that the defensive midfielder was distracted and disappointed by the outcome of last summer’s transfer saga, which may have taken its toll on his performances on the pitch.

Hence, Baleba’s underwhelming season may have raised some red flags at Carrington, prompting the management to prioritise other targets.

(Stats via DataMB)

From a technical perspective, the Brighton star represents a profile United’s squad is crying out for, especially after losing Casemiro. With his natural ability to win back possession and impose himself in the middle of the park, he would perfectly complement Mainoo’s creativity.

However, it is also clear why INEOS would rather sign a more accomplished profile like Tchouameni, who has been playing at the biggest stages with Real Madrid and France for several years.

Nevertheless, if Man Utd miss out on recruiting the French international, Baleba could emerge as the natural fallback option.