United receive lightning bolt in pursuit of game-changing 21-yo star after “record-breaking” announcement – report

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Manchester United are advancing towards a deal for Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba.

While the club enjoyed a productive transfer window this summer, the lack of midfield signings was easily noticeable, with a limited number of options at Ruben Amorim’s disposal.

With Casemiro ageing and Manuel Ugarte struggling to find his form, it seems that there are few viable options at the centre of the park going forward.

Making life even more challenging is Kobbie Mainoo’s uncertain future, with the youngster almost leaving the club in the past transfer window if reports were to be believed.

Fortunately, it seems that Man United are gearing up to add a much-needed reinforcement so as to compensate for the current midfield talent shortage.

The plan unfolds

In the weeks leading up to the transfer deadline, numerous reports linked United with Baleba, although it appears that Ineos is looking to only make a move for the Cameroonian in 2026.

What seems to be helping a potential transfer along is the belief that Brighton are looking to sign Lucien Agoume, given the belief that Baleba could leave the club in the foreseeable future.

It seems that United could be in pole position to sign Baleba, particularly as Brighton seem to have made peace with the idea that he could depart the club.

Even more optimism has been injected into United’s pursuit as fresh financial information rises to the surface.

January transfer raid incoming

United have announced their financial results for the fourth quarter trading period for the year ended June 30, 2025, fueling belief in their ability to get a deal for Baleba over the line.

“After raking in £164million in revenues for the fourth quarter, their annual income reached a record-breaking £666.5mn,” the Mirror reported.

“The club also confirmed that these figures put them in a strong position regarding the Premier League’s Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR). This will significantly boost their hopes of making a renewed bid for Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba,” the article continued.

Hopefully, United will approach any potential deal with a long-term outlook in mind.

Given the club’s limited midfield options, a strong signing such as Baleba should surely be considered.

Featured image Mike Hewitt via Getty Images

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