Carlos Baleba is said to have held private discussions with Fabian Hurzeler, as Manchester United continue to be linked with the Brighton midfielder.
The 21-year-old was the talk of the town this summer, with the Reds holding talks with the Seagulls over securing Baleba’s services. The youngster impressed at the AMEX Stadium last term, with three Premier League goals from 34 outings in total, despite being defensive-minded.
And as a result, Ruben Amorim and the Manchester United board were keen on securing his services for 2025/26. However, determined to retain the Cameroonian for the new season, Brighton slapped Baleba with an audacious price tag of £100million, which ultimately proved too rich for United’s liking.
As a result, Baleba remained on the southeastcoast. However, it is reported now that he is unsettled within the Brighton camp, with the fact that he has been subbed off at half-time on three separate occasions this term only adding fuel to the rumour mill.
As per The Sun, United are closely monitoring Baleba’s situation at present, although the youngster has reassured his commitment to Hurzeler and his current club. That may not prevent the Reds from re-entering discussions with Brighton come January, however, especially considering Amorim’s engine room is still proving particularly problematic.
Pundits and fans alike questioned why the United board opted not to improve the heart of midfield this summer, instead splurging over £200m on a new front three of Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko.
Others, meanwhile, have ultimately questioned whether Amorim’s patented 3-4-2-1 formation is suitable to the Premier League, especially considering Bruno Fernandes is more suited to an attacking role, and Casemiro – at 33 – is unable to cover as much ground.
