Manchester United Remain Keen on Carlos Baleba Despite Brighton Rejecting First Bid

For the second time this summer, Manchester United have been linked strongly with Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, with reports suggesting their opening bid has been rejected. United, who have already spent over £200 million on attacking reinforcements, are now prioritising a midfield addition, placing the 21-year-old at the top of their shortlist. Brighton reportedly value Baleba at more than £100 million and turned down United’s initial proposal, which included young midfielder Toby Collyer as part of the deal.

Baleba has missed Brighton’s last three pre-season matches, including a behind-closed-doors game against Wolfsburg, due to a knee injury sustained in training, though he was present with the squad on Saturday. Brighton are believed to be preparing for his possible departure, with replacements such as Diego Gomez, an £11 million signing from Inter Miami who impressed last season and 19-year-old Malick Yalcouye, who shone on loan at Sturm Graz.