Manchester United Eye Brighton’s Rising Star, Carlos Baleba
Manchester United are reportedly in advanced talks with Brighton & Hove Albion over the potential signing of highly-rated midfielder Carlos Baleba. The 21-year-old has quickly become a key figure for the Seagulls since joining from Lille in 2023, making 34 appearances and helping the club finish eighth in the Premier League. A deal could be worth as much as £100 million, signaling the Red Devils’ interest in securing one of Europe’s most promising midfield talents.
Baleba is not only a standout performer on the pitch but also a player with an impressive backstory. Born and raised in Douala, Cameroon, football was never just a hobby for him—it was a calling. His hometown is the birthplace of legendary African footballer Samuel Eto’o, and Baleba has expressed a desire to surpass his legacy. He has drawn inspiration from players like Declan Rice, Matheus Cunha, and Rodri, who won the Ballon d’Or in 2023. This ambition has driven him to set his sights on the highest individual honor in football.
A Rapid Rise from Cameroonian Academy to European Spotlight
Baleba’s journey to stardom has been nothing short of remarkable. Just three years ago, he was playing at the Football des Brasseries academy in Cameroon. His rapid development led to a move to Lille in 2022, where he joined the reserve team alongside fellow Cameroonian Joffrey Bazie. Despite initial struggles, he made a name for himself with his technical ability and work ethic, eventually earning a place in the first team.
His father, former striker Eugene Baleba, played a significant role in shaping his early career. At just 10 years old, he was subjected to intense training that included two hours of non-stop running and sprinting between truck tyres to improve his agility. This rigorous regime helped develop the physical and mental toughness that now defines his game. It also inspired his signature backflip celebration, which he credits to his father’s advice on improving timing and aerial ability.
Adapting to the Premier League and Finding His Feet
When Baleba moved to Brighton in 2023, he faced the challenge of adapting to the Premier League’s fast-paced style of play. Under manager Robert De Zerbi, the Seagulls adopted an aggressive passing system that required the holding midfielder to be both technically sound and physically strong. In his first season, Baleba struggled to keep up with the pace, making five errors leading to goals—only Destiny Udogie made more.
However, under new manager Fabian Hürzeler, Baleba has flourished. The German tactician has given him the confidence to express himself on the pitch, encouraging him to focus on the next ball rather than being discouraged by mistakes. This shift in mindset has allowed Baleba to become one of the most influential players in the Premier League, ranking among the top midfielders in key statistics such as interceptions, tackles, and progressive carries.
Why Baleba Could Be the Missing Piece for Manchester United
Ruben Amorim, Manchester United’s new manager, has shown a clear interest in players with high work rates and strong personalities. Baleba fits this profile perfectly. His defensive tenacity, technical ability, and ability to win possession make him an ideal partner for Bruno Fernandes in midfield. Compared to current United midfielders like Manuel Ugarte and Casemiro, Baleba stands out in several areas, including passing accuracy and interception rate.
Ugarte and Casemiro have struggled with consistency, particularly in terms of passing and dribbling. While they excel in tackling and duels, their technical shortcomings have hindered the team’s ability to maintain possession. Baleba, on the other hand, offers a more balanced skill set that could help Amorim implement his preferred style of play.
A Player with Ambition and Resilience
Despite his young age, Baleba has already proven himself as a leader on the pitch. His bravery and willingness to take risks have earned him praise from teammates and fans alike. He believes that confidence and courage are essential qualities for a midfielder, and he has consistently demonstrated these traits in high-pressure situations.
Although he has only scored three Premier League goals this season, Baleba remains a long-distance threat, as evidenced by his stunning goal against West Ham in April. That strike, which came in the final minute of the match, showcased his composure and ability to deliver under pressure.
A Future Decision for Carlos Baleba
With a contract until 2028 and the option for an additional year, Brighton will likely demand a substantial fee if they decide to sell Baleba. For Manchester United, the question is whether the move would be a step forward for the young midfielder. However, with the arrival of players like Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha, the project under Amorim is clearly taking shape.
Baleba has always set his sights high, and his confidence in his abilities suggests he would thrive in the spotlight. Whether he makes the move to Old Trafford or stays at Brighton, one thing is certain: Carlos Baleba is a player with the potential to become one of the best in the world.