Manchester United are reportedly reconsidering their interest in Carlos Baleba after Brighton & Hove Albion made a notable adjustment to their valuation of the midfielder.
The shift in price has reopened discussions around a potential transfer, especially as United continue planning for a midfield overhaul ahead of the upcoming summer window.
With Casemiro expected to depart once his current contract runs its course, strengthening the midfield has become a key priority for United’s recruitment team.
Baleba has long been identified as a player of interest, admired for his physical presence and potential to grow into a dominant figure.
However, Brighton’s earlier £100 million asking price had effectively discouraged any serious pursuit, making a deal seem unrealistic at the time.
Now, circumstances appear to have changed. Baleba’s performances this season have reportedly dipped compared to earlier expectations, prompting Brighton to reconsider their stance on his market value.
This adjustment has reignited hope at Old Trafford, with United now potentially ready to re-enter negotiations if the conditions prove favorable.
At the same time, Brighton seem to be preparing for a possible future without the 22-year-old. The club has already begun monitoring alternatives, including highly rated Ghanaian prospect Caleb Yirenkyi from Danish side Nordsjaelland.
Such scouting activity suggests that Brighton are open to the idea of Baleba’s departure, even though he still has several years remaining on his contract.
Earlier in the year, Brighton CEO Paul Barber made it clear that the club had not received any formal approach from Manchester United and emphasized that there was no intention to sell Baleba during the middle of the season.
While he acknowledged the player’s quality and long-term potential, he also hinted that opportunities could arise for him in the future—something that now appears increasingly likely.
Despite this renewed focus on Baleba, he is far from the only midfielder being considered by United.
Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson has also emerged as a strong candidate, although United are aware that securing his signature could require a significant financial outlay.
Similarly, Newcastle United midfielders Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimarães remain on the club’s radar as part of a broader shortlist.
Former United defender Rio Ferdinand has publicly weighed in on the debate, expressing a clear preference for Anderson.
In his view, United require a midfielder with high energy levels, strong physical attributes, and the ability to cover large areas of the pitch effectively.
While acknowledging the technical brilliance of Tonali and Guimarães, Ferdinand believes Anderson better fits the specific profile the team currently lacks.
He also suggested that there are additional young talents worth monitoring, although he chose not to reveal specific names.
As the transfer window approaches, Manchester United’s midfield strategy continues to evolve, with multiple options under consideration as the club looks to build a more dynamic and balanced squad for the future.
