𝗥𝗘𝗣𝗢𝗥𝗧𝗦: Manchester United have held fresh talks with the agents of their £88M transfer target, as contract negotiations between the player and his current club have reportedly stalled

𝗥𝗘𝗣𝗢𝗥𝗧𝗦: Manchester United have reportedly held new discussions with the representatives of their £88 million midfield target, Martin Baleba, as negotiations over a contract extension with Brighton stall.

These developments are fueling expectations that a major January transfer could be on the horizon — one that may significantly reshape United’s midfield options heading into the second half of the season.

According to multiple sources, Manchester United are increasingly confident of securing the signature of the highly rated Cameroonian star.

Baleba, who has quickly become one of the Premier League’s most talked-about young midfielders, is believed to be open to the move, especially as Brighton’s attempts to tie him down to a new long-term deal appear to have hit a roadblock.

Baleba’s rise has been nothing short of impressive. Since joining Brighton from Lille, the 21-year-old has demonstrated an exceptional blend of strength, composure, and tactical intelligence.

His ability to intercept danger, carry the ball through tight spaces, and connect play between the defensive and attacking lines has made him invaluable to Roberto De Zerbi’s system.

Brighton’s structured, possession-heavy style has helped Baleba refine his abilities, and he has become one of the club’s standout performers this season.

Manchester United’s growing interest in the young midfielder coincides with their ongoing search for reliability and creativity in the middle of the park.

Inconsistency among senior midfielders, coupled with injury concerns, has left manager Erik ten Hag eager to add a young, dynamic presence capable of executing his high-intensity philosophy.

Baleba’s attributes make him an attractive option — his physicality, work rate, and forward-thinking approach perfectly suit the technical profile United now prioritise.

Talks between the two clubs are believed to be advancing steadily. While Brighton are expected to demand a substantial transfer fee — likely reflecting Baleba’s importance to the squad and the length of contract still remaining — Manchester United are prepared to meet their valuation.

Brighton, known for their disciplined transfer strategy, will use the negotiations to strengthen their squad once again, ensuring balance within the club’s long-term project.

The potential arrival of Baleba has sparked discussions among analysts regarding how he would fit into United’s existing structure.

His presence could significantly improve ball retention, accelerate attacking transitions, and offer stability in matches where United have struggled to control tempo.

For Ten Hag, such a player could be pivotal in reestablishing the midfield dominance he seeks.

Beyond the immediate impact, Baleba’s age makes him a long-term investment for United. Surrounded by experienced figures at Old Trafford, he would have ample opportunity to grow, refine his decision-making, and eventually become a key figure in the new era that Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the INEOS group aim to build.

Although the deal is not yet finalized, anticipation continues to mount. Should the transfer go through, Manchester United fans will be eager to see Baleba don the red shirt and inject fresh energy into the midfield.

For Brighton, his departure would mark the end of a successful chapter, while opening the door for the next rising talent to step forward — a cycle the club has mastered in recent years.

As the January transfer window approaches, the developments surrounding Martin Baleba promise to be one of the most closely followed stories, with both clubs preparing for significant decisions that could shape their seasons.