The summer transfer saga surrounding Carlos Baleba has reached a boiling point, as Brighton & Hove Albion have slapped a massive €120 million valuation on the 21-year-old Cameroonian midfielder.

Manchester United and Manchester City have each shown keen interest—Pep Guardiola views Baleba as an ideal fit at City, while United’s Ruben Amorim, a long-time admirer, reportedly sees Baleba as a key upgrade for United’s evolving midfield.

Despite United’s enthusiasm, speculation has outpaced substance: Brighton CEO Paul Barber told fans there has been “no contact” from United, underscoring the club’s determination to keep its prized asset this summer.

Brighton have earned a reputation for extracting top dollar when selling their standout players to Premier League rivals, with previous exits—such as Moisés Caicedo and Marc Cucurella to Chelsea, Ben White to Arsenal, and Alexis Mac Allister to Liverpool—demonstrating their unwillingness to negotiate below-market fees.

Brighton’s strong financial standing, including a record £222.4 million turnover last season, means the club is under no pressure to sell and can comfortably resist advances for Baleba. 

Baleba’s Stock on the Rise

Since arriving from Lille in 2023, Baleba has grown into one of the most dynamic young midfielders in England, making 34 Premier League appearances last season with three goals and an assist.

His hybrid skill set, combining ball-winning aggression reminiscent of Caicedo with technical assurance akin to Bissouma, makes him one of the division’s most complete and versatile midfielders.

Statistically, he ranks among the top Premier League midfielders for tackling, dribbling, and aerial duels, and his ability to maintain possession under pressure stands out across Europe’s top five leagues for under-23 midfielders. 

Crucially, Baleba is said to be content at the Amex Stadium, with sources suggesting he is likely to remain for at least another season unless an astronomical bid arrives. Brighton’s strategy includes grooming the next generation of midfield talent, but they are clear: Baleba’s departure before next summer is highly unlikely. 

Transfer Obstacles and Prospects

Manchester United’s pursuit is further complicated by their own squad dynamics and financial priorities. The club’s imminent signing of RB Leipzig forward Benjamin Sesko for €85 million, alongside the need to offload surplus attackers such as Alejandro Garnacho to balance the books, means a deal for Baleba this window would require significant maneuvering.

Even intermediaries admit agreeing personal terms would be easy—negotiating with Brighton, however, will be anything but. 

For now, Brighton fans can look forward to another season with one of Europe’s fastest-rising midfield stars at the heart of their side. The Premier League’s big spenders may circle, but the Seagulls continue to dictate the terms.