According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the initiative has come entirely from the 22-year-old’s camp. His team is trying to determine if the Red Devils are prepared to reopen formal transfer negotiations following his mixed campaign in the Premier League.
A Unilateral Push From the Player’s Camp
Baleba was desperate to complete a move to Old Trafford twelve months ago, having previously agreed to personal terms before Brighton blocked the exit by slapping a massive £100 million valuation on his head. That ambition has not changed.
With Manchester United actively searching for a third midfield reinforcement alongside recent arrivals Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos, Baleba’s camp has initiated contact to see if manager Michael Carrick wants to bring his tough-tackling style to Manchester.
Brighton Lowers the Financial Threshold
While Brighton’s strict valuation halted a transfer in 2025, structural market changes have altered the landscape.
- The Valuation: Reports tracked by Sky Sports and Manchester Evening News suggest Brighton’s asking price has decreased to roughly £70 million.
- The Reality: No formal club-to-club bid has been submitted. Brighton remains in a strong negotiating position as the Indomitable Lion’s contract runs until June 2028.
Under Consideration At Old Trafford
The technical department under INEOS leadership is currently assessing value across the market. While Baleba’s raw physical profile, ball-retention capacity, and defensive stamina are highly admired, he is not the only option. Manchester United is concurrently evaluating a lower-cost alternative in AS Roma’s French midfielder Manu Koné, keeping their tactical options wide open as the summer transfer window progresses.
