Brighton manager makes telling Carlos Baleba transfer admission

Carlos Baleba appears to be edging ever closer to Manchester United, with the latest comments from Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler only adding further intrigue around his future.

The 22-year-old has emerged as United’s priority midfield target after the club already strengthened Michael Carrick’s options with Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans this summer.

Baleba offers a different profile to both.

He is an aggressive, athletic midfielder who is comfortable stepping forward to win possession, covering large spaces and carrying the ball through pressure.

His acceleration and defensive awareness allow him to close passing lanes and stop counter-attacks, while his tackling and physicality have helped establish him as one of Brighton’s most important midfielders.

Those qualities explain why United have pursued him for more than a year, having initially explored a transfer last summer before Brighton’s valuation proved too high.

David Ornstein has since reported that Manchester United are closing in on a deal for Baleba, with negotiations continuing after an offer worth around £60million plus £5million in add-ons.

Brighton chief executive Paul Barber has also refused to shut down the possibility of a departure, recently admitting that the club will consider bids which make financial sense.

Fabian Hurzeler makes telling Carlos Baleba admission

Hurzeler was asked about Baleba during Brighton’s pre-match press conference ahead of their Premier League opener against Aston Villa.

The Brighton manager confirmed that Baleba is not fit enough to feature in the game because of the ankle problem that has disrupted his pre-season.

However, the most interesting moment came immediately afterwards.

When Hurzeler was asked whether fitness was the only reason Baleba would be unavailable, the Brighton boss laughed before moving on, an exchange that will naturally fuel further speculation given United’s advanced pursuit.

Baleba is already expected to miss another couple of weeks through injury.

However, the timing of Hurzeler’s reaction is notable with negotiations over his future still ongoing.

United will now hope discussions progress quickly as Carrick looks to complete his midfield rebuild before the transfer window closes.