Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Fabrizio Romano: Manchester United have £100 million star in their priority list yet again in 2026

Originally posted on We All Follow United
By Rohit Sarkar | Last updated Sep 7, 2025 12:06 PM ET

Manchester United will be back in the race for Carlos Baleba in 2026

Manchester United made Carlos Baleba one of their key targets during the 2025 summer window. Reports suggested that the club had held initial talks, and the player himself seemed open to the move. However, Brighton stood firm in their stance, refusing to sell at any price and valuing Baleba at more than £100 million, similar to the Moises Caicedo deal.

With United already having spent heavily, the transfer was never likely this year. Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler told the BBC that he was confident Baleba would stay at the club. As a result, United pulled out of talks, but there remains hope the deal could be revived in the future.

Reports and the reality of the situation

According to GIVEMESPORT, Fabrizio Romano has reported that United have placed Baleba on their shortlist for 2026 and could return with a big offer next year. Baleba joined Brighton from Lille for £23 million just two years ago and quickly established himself in the Premier League, scoring three goals in 34 appearances last season as the Seagulls finished eighth. He was the heartbeat of their midfield.

Meanwhile, United’s midfield remains problematic. Casemiro’s form is in decline, Manuel Ugarte has yet to convince, and Kobbie Mainoo has not been given a consistent role by Ruben Amorim due to his similarities with Bruno Fernandes.

This is why United continue to view Baleba as a priority signing. Reports even suggest personal terms have been agreed in principle, should Brighton ever soften their stance. Romano has insisted United will not give up on him and are simply waiting for the right moment. While Javi Guerra has been earmarked as an alternative, Baleba remains the top target.

Is Baleba the solution to United’s problems?

The key question is whether Baleba fits United’s needs. On paper, his profile suits Amorim’s tactical setup perfectly. He is aggressive in tackles, strong in interceptions, and highly effective at winning the ball back. In the Premier League last season, he played 2,670 minutes, completing 46 tackles and boasting an 87% pass accuracy. At just 21, the Cameroon international has already shown consistency and maturity.

In Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system, Baleba could be paired with a more creative midfielder such as Mainoo, providing both balance and defensive security. This would give United the midfield stability they have lacked for years.

The main obstacle remains Brighton’s valuation. United have already spent over £200 million in 2025, and Baleba is contracted until 2028, which gives Brighton little pressure to sell. Casemiro’s uncertain future may free up funds if he departs, but United would still need to demonstrate both financial strength and ambition to complete the deal.

The encouraging sign is that Baleba himself is interested in a move to Old Trafford, even without the lure of European football. That desire could prove decisive. While options like Guerra exist, United’s heart is set on Baleba. If the club shows courage and makes the right move in 2026, they could finally secure the midfield anchor they have been searching for.

This article first appeared on We All Follow United and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: