Manchester United keen to add Kante-like star to Ruben Amorim’s roster

Originally posted on We All Follow United
By Pranav Nair | Last updated Aug 6, 2025 4:56 PM ET

Manchester United have enquired about Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba this summer

Manchester United have opened discussions with Brighton & Hove Albion to understand what it would take to bring Carlos Baleba to Old Trafford, according to David Ornstein of The Athletic (h/t X).

With the club’s striker chase, led by priority target Benjamin Sesko, still ongoing, adding a midfielder is also firmly on Ruben Amorim’s radar. United’s summer business has already seen Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo bolster the forward line, but a player with Baleba’s profile could be the next piece of the puzzle.

Why Baleba appeals to United

At just 20 years old, Baleba is known for his energy, ball-winning ability, and box-to-box presence, traits that have drawn comparisons to N’Golo Kante in his prime. His physicality, pressing intensity, and ability to transition play quickly fit perfectly into Amorim’s high-tempo approach.

Man Utd contact Brighton via intermediaries to explore conditions of deal for Carlos Baleba. #BHAFC do not plan to sell this summer & all sides aware move may be unrealistic. But #MUFC keen + should know in coming days if plausible or not @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/jCflCWm3AV
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) August 6, 2025

However, Brighton are reluctant to let him go this summer. The Cameroon international is tied down until 2028 and has quickly become a key figure in their midfield. The Seagulls’ stance is to keep him for at least another year, meaning United would have to submit a very persuasive offer to change their minds.

Financial balancing act at Old Trafford

Securing Sesko from RB Leipzig will already require a major outlay, and with Brighton certain to demand a significant fee for Baleba, United may need to offload players first. Marcus Rashford’s loan to Barcelona will ease the wage bill, while Christian Eriksen and Victor Lindelof have already departed.

Still, more sales could be necessary to push through a double swoop for Sesko and Baleba in the same window. The midfield addition would bring much-needed athleticism and depth, ensuring United can compete across all fronts this season.

Baleba wouldn’t just be a signing for the present, he’d be an investment in the next era of United’s midfield. If Amorim and the recruitment team can pull it off, it would send a strong signal that United are building a squad capable of dominating both physically and tactically in the Premier League.

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

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