Carlos Baleba’s stance on Man Utd transfer after Brighton talks held | Football | Sport

Carlos Baleba has previously made his position clear regarding a potential transfer to Manchester United. The Brighton midfielder has been on the Red Devils’ radar since last summer. Keen to provide then-boss Ruben Amorim with reinforcements, United splashed out over £200million in the previous window, bringing in three high-profile signings: Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko. Senne Lammens also joined as the new first-choice goalkeeper.

The Brazilian’s exit will leave a significant void in midfield, making a replacement an obvious priority. United were strongly linked with Brighton’s Baleba during the summer, and whether through a surprise late deadline day swoop or a summer acquisition, the 22-year-old has previously expressed his genuine feelings about a potential switch to Old Trafford.

Last summer, United reportedly initiated preliminary discussions with Brighton regarding a move for Baleba, but the Seagulls were said to have demanded a staggering £115million valuation. United’s interest in Baleba remains, despite initial hesitations preventing a firm approach.

Baleba told Sky Sports last August: “I don’t really think like that: playing for two or three years and then leaving. Me? I just work. In my head it’s all about working and helping my club.

“If I can help a team-mate, I will. If they can help me, I’ll accept that help to push forward and develop. So, I just work to help my team and myself progress in the future.

“In return, everyone who helps me wants me to go to the highest level. And if there are big clubs who want me, it’s not something that worries me or gets me excited.

“I just need to work hard and keep a cool head. I don’t know if I’m going to be the star or the next big thing. For me, being the star is quite a lot.

“Everyone talking about you, singing your name? That just doesn’t do it for me. It’s not something that gets me running. I just prefer getting my head down and working on the pitch.”

While Baleba’s grounded attitude may not necessarily aid United’s pursuit, his admirable qualities could only intensify their desire to secure the Cameroonian’s services, whether in this transfer window or the next.