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Carlos Baleba could have ended up at Manchester United, but after that the summer went the way it did.
United were excited and ready to make the move. Baleba provided the athleticism that Ruben Amorim craved in the engine room of his midfield.
However, Brighton & Hove Albion held on. The Seagulls refused to part ways with the 21-year-old, who has Louis Saha compared to a young Michael Carrickwho has both strength and the legs to cover serious ground.
They placed a ‘not for sale’ tag on the Cameroon international. Sensing resistance, INEOS cooled their interest with the hope of restarting talks in 2026, when Brighton might be more open to negotiations.
Still, the failed transfer appears to have taken its toll. Baleba hasn’t reached the same heights this season.
Last semester, Flashscore rated him 7.1. This campaign he has a 6.6.
Baleba took a dive
Despite his slow start, transfer guru David Ornstein remains convinced Baleba is tailor-made for United.
Speaking to Planet Football, Ornstein was asked to name one signing he would like to see made by every Premier League club. When it came to United, he didn’t hesitate:
“Carlos Baleba, because they want him, he wants them. Brighton don’t want to let him go, but we’ll see what the future brings.”
@planetfutebolDavid Ornstein reveals who every Premier League Big Six side should sign! @Pro Am Padel Tour #football #footballtiktok #premierleague #transfers♬ original sound – Planet Football
Baleba isn’t the only midfield name on United’s radar
Unfortunately, the failed dive damaged Baleba’s momentum. However, he needs to rediscover his form quickly.
In addition to him, United are already linked with excellent midfielders. Elliot Anderson, Conor Gallagher, Joao Gomes, Angelo Stiller and Adam Wharton are all reportedly on the club’s radar.
Baleba now faces a challenge: prove his worth or risk United focusing on alternative targets. One thing is certain: INEOS is planning a midfield renewal in 2026.
Although Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes have brought some stability to the center of the park, United could be better.
Amorim demands mobility in midfield, and he will only get that if United secure the young, athletic profiles he is looking for.
Featured image Mike Hewitt via Getty Images
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