Sky: ‘Fantastic’ EPL star ready to turn down major offer as he only wants Man Utd

Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba has emerged as a target for Bayern Munich, but his priority remains a move to Manchester United.The 21-year-old enjoyed a sublime 2024/25 campaign, establishing himself as one of the most resolute midfield enforcers in the Premier League. Even former United captain Roy Keane hailed him as a ‘fantastic’ player.The Red Devils identified the Cameroonian as their main target to bolster the middle of the park last summer. However, they were repelled by Brighton’s asking price, as they refused to even negotiate a deal below the £100 million threshold.Therefore, Man Utd abandoned their midfield plans altogether, but Fabrizio Romano insisted that the club will launch another onslaught for Baleba in 2026.Baleba gives priority to Man Utd amidst Bayern Munich interestIn recent days, a report from Sky Sport Germany claimed that Bayern Munich have entered the fray for Baleba, while Brighton have agreed to lower their asking price to €85 million.This has now been followed up by a fresh report from Sky Sport Switzerland journalist Sacha Tavolieri, who confirms the Bavarians’ intention to replace Leon Goretzka with the 21-year-old Premier League star.(Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)However, the source insists that the player would rather join Man Utd than any other club, after promising himself a move to Old Trafford this summer.Do Man Utd still want Carlos Baleba?While it has been claimed that Baleba had agreed personal terms with the Premier League giants last summer, the landscape can change rather swiftly in football.This season, the player has been struggling to replicate last term’s form, with many observers believing he’s distracted by his potential move to Carrington. Baleba’s stats in 25/26 Percentile Touches 18% Chances created 12% Shot attempts 52% Aerial duels won 69% Defensive contributions 66% Goals 20% (via FotMob)Nevertheless, with the likes of Elliot Anderson and Adam Wharton outperforming him at the moment, Man Utd and Ruben Amorim might decide to drop their interest in the Cameroonian international, or at least downgrade his place on the shortlist.Even with the reported discount, £74 million is not a small figure to spend on one player, and if United feel this sum can be better invested elsewhere, they wouldn’t hesitate to pull the trigger, even if it means breaking Baleba’s heart.