Baleba Transfer Saga: Brighton CEO Shoots Down United Contact Claims

Manchester United's reported interest in Carlos Baleba has been met with a cold shoulder from Brighton, with CEO Paul Barber categorically ruling out any transfer discussions between the two clubs.

The 22-year-old midfielder has emerged as a target for Ruben Amorim's side as they seek midfield reinforcement, particularly given that both Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes are now on the wrong side of 30. United's pursuit of the Cameroonian first surfaced last summer, only to stall when Brighton's valuation exceeded £100m. Now, with the winter window open, speculation has resurfaced—though Barber is having none of it.

Speaking on talkSPORT, the Brighton chief was unequivocal about the lack of communication. "No call from Old Trafford. No call from anyone connected to Manchester United," he stated bluntly. Sky Sports had reported on Friday that United had examined potential conditions for a January arrival, though acknowledged that a deal remained unlikely this month.

Barber's stance is clear: Baleba remains integral to Brighton's plans as they prepare for the second half of the season, and they're anticipating his return from AFCON commitments. "We have no plans or desire to sell Carlos in this window, or in any future window," he added, though he acknowledged the midfielder's quality and the opportunities that may await him.

That said, Brighton appear to be fielding considerable interest. Liverpool have reportedly also been exploring a move, according to Caught Offside, which cited sources suggesting multiple clubs are circling. While various suitors would prefer to strike now, the word from the south coast is that January remains off the table. Come summer, however, the picture could change entirely—though anyone keen on Baleba's services should expect to pay north of £100m.

For United, the prospect of such an outlay may prove prohibitive, especially given Amorim's own recent comments on January activity. The Portuguese manager indicated at a Friday press conference that no squad changes are anticipated, insisting the group is already sufficient for their objectives. "We have no conversations at this moment to have any change in the squad," Amorim said, emphasizing the importance of maintaining focus on upcoming fixtures rather than the transfer market.

Should United opt against pursuing Baleba, cheaper alternatives exist—Ayyoub Bouaddi at Lille and Christos Mouzakitis of Olympiacos have been mooted, whilst Nottingham Forest's Elliott Anderson is also drawing attention from multiple quarters. For now, though, Baleba appears firmly off the market, at least until the summer window beckons.