Manchester United's bid for Carlos Baleba stalls over Brighton's £100m price tag

Manchester United are searching for a Premier League‑experienced defensive midfielder to replace departing Casemiro. While goalkeeper Ederson has already been signed, the club’s top targets Elliot Anderson and Sandro Tonali were deemed too expensive, and Tottenham Hotspur’s late offer for Mateus Fernandes further limited options.

United identified 22‑year‑old Carlos Baleba as a preferred replacement, but Brighton & Hove Albion have held firm on a £100 million asking price. The club remains interested, yet Brighton has not lowered its valuation despite Baleba’s inconsistent season. With the high price blocking the move, United are also considering lower‑cost alternatives such as Tyler Adams and Sander Berge, and have been linked with players like Aurélien Tchouaméni, Eduardo Camavinga and Ayyoub Bouaddi.