Brighton & Hove Albion chief executive Paul Barber has denied any formal approach from Manchester United regarding midfielder Carlos Baleba, despite growing rumours linking the Cameroon international with a summer switch to Old Trafford. While the Red Devils are exploring a transfer through intermediary-level conversations, Brighton maintain that the player remains a critical part of their plans.
Brighton deny United contact over BalebaInsist player is not for saleUnited need to free up funds to pursue midfielderFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
United’s ongoing pursuit of Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig appears to be nearing its conclusion and attention is reportedly beginning to shift toward reinforcing midfield options with Baleba emerging as one of their prime targets to bolster the number six position. Sources cited by claim United have made preliminary inquiries, though not directly to Brighton, but via third-party representatives, to assess what kind of deal might be required for the 21-year-old’s services.
AdvertisementGetty Images SportTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Brighton chief Barber addressed the rumours head-on. He acknowledged that interest in Brighton’s rising stars is inevitable given the club’s successful recruitment and development record, but assured fans that the United leadership have made no approaches for any of their players.
WHAT BARBER SAID
During a fan event, Barber said: "We have got some great talent. There is always going to be interest in our players. Manchester United have not been in touch with me. From that point of view, speculation is speculation."
He went on to reaffirm Brighton’s commitment to holding onto their top performers unless the conditions are ideal for both player and club.
"We will always try and make sure we sell our best players at the right time, not just for the player but also for us," he said. "If we end up doing that with any player, it is with a view to leaving Fabian with a very competitive squad, whatever happens. We don’t want to sell our best players. Carlos is a fantastic talent who has got a lot of years ahead of him and we hope he will be here for many years to come. But it is something which, as always, is subject to dynamics of the football world, which is not always predictable.”
DID YOU KNOW?
Baleba signed for Brighton in the summer of 2023 from French side Lille, with the deal reportedly valued at just under £26 million including performance-related add-ons. Since arriving in the Premier League, the midfielder has quickly adapted and impressed, with his blend of physicality, composure and ball progression marking him as one of the most promising young players in his position. In his debut season, Baleba featured in 40 matches across all competitions, contributing four goals and two assists. His performances have also earned him a place in the Cameroon national setup, where he has made seven appearances to date.
