United’s plan to strike record-breaking deal for 22-yo maestro in ruins after PSG launch surprise hijack – report

Manchester United are braced for a bidding war to erupt over Carlos Baleba after Paris Saint-Germain stormed into the race for the 22-year-old enforcer, according to a new report. Long-term target at Old Trafford United have been closely tracking Brighton & Hove Albion’s midfield dynamo since he arrived at the Amex Stadium in 2023. The Seagulls paid £23 million to sign the highly-rated youngster as a replacement for Moises Caicedo, who departed for Chelsea in a British record £115m deal. This was the figure used as a benchmark when United made overtures to sign Baleba last summer, with Brighton refusing to enter talks for their prized asset, as intermediaries made clear only an exorbitant bid would change their mind. The Cameroon international was open to the switch, and even agreed personal terms with United. He is also understood to want to play alongside his compatriot Bryan Mbeumo, who sealed his own move to Manchester in the same window. Ruben Amorim was believed to be a huge admirer of the defensive midfielder, believing he would fit the 3-4-2-1 system like a glove. And while the Portuguese coach is no longer at Old Trafford, United’s interest in Baleba has not wavered. The club are confident of striking a deal in the summer after maintaining contact with the player’s camp this season. There is believed to be no concern over a downturn in form as well, which Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler has attributed to United’s failed pursuit. PSG enter the fray It may not all be plain sailing for the Red Devils, however, as TEAMtalk reveals PSG have “been active” in recent weeks to place themselves at the front of the queue for Baleba. The Ligue 1 giant are joined by Chelsea as the two clubs in the “strongest positions to move” for him, with both “better-placed” than United as they are currently in the Champions League. Newcastle and Tottenham Hotspur are also keeping a close eye on developments on the south coast, though the two Premier League sides are braced for no European football next year after dismal campaigns. TEAMtalk reveals Brighton value Baleba in the £80-100m bracket, before concluding that the midfielder will definitely “be on the move” this summer with a “leap to the elite on the cards”. Final Thoughts United’s confidence in finalising a deal for Baleba will stem from the months of preparation the club has already invested. While there was disappointment at Old Trafford that their interest was firmly rejected last summer, it allowed INEOS to lay the groundwork towards an agreement this year. Crucially, they have buy-in from the player who sees it as a dream move. While the projects on offer at the Parc des Princes or Stamford Bridge are alluring ones, Baleba already has his heart set on the Theatre of Dreams. Featured image Mike Hewitt via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Darragh Fox Darragh is an editor for The Peoples Person who spent three years learning about the Cold War at the University of Sheffield slowly realising football was by far the most interesting thing to write about. Amad’s first touch should be officially recognised as the eighth wonder of the world.