Carlos Baleva in action during Brighton vs. Everton (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Manchester United are still considering a move for Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleva, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The Red Devils had already targeted him during the summer and are interested in the Cameroon international, but Brighton were adamant he was not for sale.
Romano explained on YouTube that Manchester United consider Bareva the “perfect signing” and that he remains a player to keep an eye on in the summer of 2026.
Therefore, even if it is unlikely that Baleva will be available in January, it is clear that United can count on Baleva’s return and will probably turn their attention to next summer.
Watch Romano’s video post about Baleva below. In it, he also suggests Brighton are willing to wait for more clubs to join the race for the 21-year-old…
Fabrizio Romano talks about Carlos Baleva’s move to Manchester United
“(Ruben) Amorim made a big push for Baleva in the summer transfer window,” Romano said.
“Amorim thought Baleva was the perfect target for Man United in terms of his potential in terms of midfield strength, skill and Premier League knowledge.
“He was considered by club officials and the manager to be the perfect signing. Brighton have closed the door on that possibility.”
“At the moment January Brighton don’t want to send a player. So January’s signing for the summer is still difficult. We’ll see what happens there, because our United might be there and Brighton feel that maybe other clubs could also be in the race for an important and talented midfielder like Carlos Bareva.”
“It’s certainly a remarkable situation, because in general Baleva and the rest of Manchester United are looking for an important midfielder to add to their squad in 2026. We’ll see what opportunities there are in January or ultimately in the summer transfer window. But midfield will be an important position to cover for Manchester United next year in 2026.”
Baleva wanted to move to Manchester United
Manager David Ornstein reported in the summer that Baleva was open to a move to United, so it won’t be an issue if he tries to reinstate his contract in the future.
MUFC fans will be hoping the club remains in pole position for the talented young player, but one might imagine that other big names will also be in the running for his signature.
Brighton have also brought in star players such as Moises Caicedo, Marc Cucurella, Leandro Trossard and Joao Pedro, with Baleva likely to be their next big sale.