Whitwell: ‘Absolutely wonderful’ PL star has already ‘agreed personal terms’ with United, ball in INEOS’ court

Manchester United have seemingly already laid the foundations of a potential deal for Carlos Baleba – at least with the player himself.Indeed, Laurie Whitwell has confirmed in this morning’s Transfer Deal Sheet (The Athletic) that when United approached the coveted midfielder, hailed as ‘absolutely wonderful’ by the Match of the Day panel, over the summer, the two parties ‘agreed personal terms’. 🔺 Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton and Carlos Baleba among names being considered🔺 Casemiro expected to leave, Kobbie Mainoo future uncertain🔺 Manuel Ugarte lacking minutes, possibility of interest in Bruno Fernandes This is @lauriewhitwell’s One to Watch in the latest… pic.twitter.com/u9NCBivSEg — The Athletic | Football (@TheAthleticFC) December 2, 2025United mulling over summer 2026 return for Baleba(Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)However, the Red Devils then opted against submitting a formal bid after learning that Brighton and Hove Albion were ready to demand a fee in the region of the £115 million they received for Moises Caicedo back in 2023.Caicedo was 21 at the time he made the switch to Chelsea – the age Baleba is now, which is undoubtedly contributing to the Seagulls’ hefty demands.Since 2025/2026 got underway, the Cameroonian’s performances have left much to be desired, and manager Fabian Hurzeler thinks United’s interest may have something to do with it.“For sure, when a young boy reads there is interest from Manchester United with a big, big offer, it might affect him deep, deep down,” he said back in September, via Beanyman Sports.“That’s also part of the development to understand that when you play well, there comes a big offer, there comes a big club that wants to have him.”Baleba has overseen a dip in form(Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)Baleba has been withdrawn at the interval on four occasions already in the Premier League this campaign. After doing so in Brighton’s win over Brentford, he dropped to the bench for the subsequent fixture against Nottingham Forest, being brought on in the closing stages to make just a six-minute cameo.He will be representing the Indomitable Lions at the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations tournament, so will be hoping to revive his stellar form on one of the biggest stages.