Manchester United opted to strengthen their attack this summer, but they look light in midfield.
This is why Ruben Amorim demanded INEOS sign Carlos Baleba from Brighton and Hove Albion, as he fits his requirement of being athletic and powerful on the ball.
However, the Seagulls’ valuation meant that the move never materialized. INEOS attempted to sign an alternative midfielder before the deadline, but to no avail.
Conor Gallagher and Angelo Stiller were among the names looked at, but the Red Devils opted not to sign anyone, with Fabrizio Romano claiming that the co-owners are saving up money for fresh crack at a deal for the Brighton ace.
Baleba move in 2026
“I’m not surprised Man Utd decided not to invest in any other midfielder,” Romano explained on his YouTube channel.
“I’m not surprised because my feeling is that Manchester United will keep their interest alive in 2026 for Carlos Baleba.”
And now, Fichajes have revealed that the 20-time English league champions are preparing to break the British transfer record to land Baleba in 2026.
“Manchester United failed to finalize Carlos Baleba’s signing in August, but they haven’t thrown in the towel. On the contrary, they’re determined to return to the fray in 2026 with a proposal that could reach €150 million.
“A figure that reflects the importance the English club places on the Cameroonian, who is set to become one of the Premier League’s leading midfielders in the coming years.
Baleba record deal
“The €150 million investment not only seeks to secure a player for the present and future, but also to send a clear message to the rest of the league: the club is willing to spend heavily to return to the top.”
Brighton are always open to a record sale, and Baleba seems the latest in a long line of such deals they have sanctioned in the past.
Liverpool had recently broken the transfer record by signing Alexander Isak from Newcastle United for £125m (€144 million).
INEOS mean business, and Liverpool’s record seems in danger, which shows how serious United are. The 21-year-old’s signing could truly catapult the Old Trafford side back to the top.
Feature image Mike Hewitt via Getty Images
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Ayantan Chowdhury
Ayantan has worked for 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites but his heart was always set on writing about his favourite club. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
