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Manchester United could rethink £100m move after worrying Brighton display

Originally posted on We All Follow United
By Rohit Sarkar | Last updated Oct 27, 2025 9:23 AM ET

Manchester United could have second thoughts about splashing the cash for Brighton star Carlos Baleba

Momentum shifts quickly at Manchester United. Their search for a new midfielder clearly shows that uncertainty. Under Ruben Amorim, the club’s recruitment plans now focus more on balance than big names.

Over the past few months, it was widely reported that Carlos Baleba was open to joining Manchester United. Red Devils’ star, Bryan Mbeumo is also playing an integral role in helping the club land Baleba. However, after the recent 4–2 win over Brighton, those hopes have faded. The performance that was supposed to be the midfielder’s audition only strengthened the club’s doubts rather than their belief.

According to TEAMtalk, United still admire the 21-year-old’s athletic ability, but they reject Brighton’s £100 million valuation. The Manchester club calls that price unrealistic, especially as Paul Pogba still holds their record transfer fee. Before the Old Trafford clash, sources close to the club had already questioned whether Baleba justified that amount. His below-par performance confirmed their concerns.

The Cameroon midfielder lost possession several times and failed to control the game. He looked far from a player ready to dominate at the top level. United’s scouts, who have followed him for months, now focus on other players. They view Adam Wharton, Elliot Anderson, and Yehor Yarmoliuk as more practical options.

Brighton, meanwhile, stand firm and insist Baleba will prove his quality soon. For now, though, United refuse to spend that much. They keep shifting their transfer focus to another direction.

Why should United not spend that amount?

From a tactical view, Baleba could add valuable variety under Amorim. He carries the ball through pressure and wins duels with confidence. The 21-year-old defensive midfielder connects defence with attack smoothly and could fit the system well.

His strength and calmness under pressure would give the midfield much-needed stability behind Bruno Fernandes. In some matches, Amorim could even use the Cameroon international as a central defender in a 3-4-3 setup. That role would allow him to step into midfield and create an extra passing option, providing United with more control in their build-up play.

However, the risk outweighs the reward right now. Baleba has dipped in form and often loses focus. His manager has taken him off early in a few games, showing his inconsistency. Spending £100 million on a developing player would drain the club’s resources.

United have already wasted money on expensive transfers before. Under INEOS-led management, they prefer smarter, value-based signings. They see alternatives such as Angelo Stiller or Wharton as better options with less financial risk. The Red Devils are acting wisely by waiting. Baleba may grow into a top midfielder one day, but right now, paying a record fee for him makes no sense given his current level and form.

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

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