Manchester United’s pursuit of Brighton and Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba continues to gather momentum, with transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirming the 21-year-old remains a priority target for the Red Devils heading into 2026.

Since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure, United have endured a challenging period, culminating in their worst-ever Premier League finish of 15th last season. Under Ruben Amorim’s guidance, the club has embarked on a structured rebuild, initially focusing on attacking reinforcements with proven Premier League talent.

United’s Midfield Rebuild Focuses on Premier League Experience

Attention now shifts to strengthening the midfield, with Baleba, Elliot Anderson, and Adam Wharton all featuring on United’s radar. The Cameroonian international first emerged as a serious target last summer when United attempted to secure his signature, only for Brighton to firmly reject their advances.

Romano reveals that despite last summer’s setback, United remain committed to signing Baleba, who is reportedly “very keen” on the Old Trafford move after witnessing Amorim’s positive impact. The club are prepared to strike in January if Brighton soften their stance, though a summer 2026 deal appears more realistic.

Is Baleba Worth the Investment?

With a contract running until 2028 and a Transfermarkt valuation of approximately £53 million, Brighton hold a strong negotiating position. Some supporters question whether Baleba justifies the investment, particularly given his inconsistent form this season compared to last campaign’s impressive displays.

However, the midfielder’s technical ability, dynamism, and age profile make him an attractive long-term prospect. At just 21, Baleba possesses significant room for development and could flourish under Amorim’s coaching, potentially becoming the world-class midfielder United desperately need.

Whether United can successfully negotiate with Brighton remains uncertain, but their sustained interest demonstrates genuine belief in Baleba’s potential to transform their midfield for years to come.