Manchester United’s pursuit of Carlos Baleba proved short-lived during the summer transfer window. Brighton placed a £100million valuation on Baleba, making it financially challenging for the Red Devils to complete a deal, with the Seagulls stating they were “very confident” he would stay at the Amex Stadium. The club had intended to retain Baleba for at least another campaign.
United sources ultimately confirmed that midfield reinforcement wasn’t a priority given their existing squad options were deemed robust and adaptable. Baleba did receive consideration at one point during the summer window, however, and United might have submitted a bid for the 21-year-old had they not already committed substantial funds elsewhere. United focused on revamping their attacking options and securing Senne Lammens.
They were happy to postpone their midfield recruitment until next summer, so could Baleba resurface as a target when the season concludes?
There remains scope for renewed interest come next summer, as opposed to the January window, though his displays this campaign have been underwhelming, which could spark some reservations.
Baleba was withdrawn at the interval against Everton in August and failed to demonstrate £100m quality when appearing as a substitute against Bournemouth in September.
Following the Bournemouth match, Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler acknowledged his difficulties: “I think it’s normal for a young player when the media creates the noise around him.
“It’s not easy for this player to handle it. Therefore, we need to give him the time and support so he comes back to his best performance.
“But he’s a young player and I think that’s something we have to accept, that young players don’t always have the face we want to see. It’s our responsibility to help them in the right moments.”
When questioned directly about whether United’s interest had impacted the midfielder, the Brighton manager responded: “I think everyone gets affected.
“Especially when you are that young and you hear these kinds of things, no matter if they are wrong or right. But it’s just noise we don’t need.”
Baleba must raise his game and leave behind a disappointing start to the season if he harbours ambitions of securing a switch to Old Trafford, where he will feature on Saturday evening.
It wouldn’t come as a shock to witness Baleba produce his finest display of the campaign in Manchester this weekend, considering Omar Berrada and Jason Wilcox will be watching from the directors’ box.
Baleba will likely view the fixture as an opportunity to showcase his talents for a potential transfer.
Nevertheless, to justify a £100m price tag, Baleba must demonstrate reliable excellence week after week, rather than simply rising to the occasion when it suits him.