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Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba is still “super keen” on joining Man Utd, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

The Red Devils explored a move for the Cameroon international last year before ending their interest due to his sky-high asking price.

Speaking on his YouTube channel about the chances of a deal being revived this summer, Romano said that despite Baleba’s interest in the move, Michael Carrick’s side are not currently looking to sign him:

“United are aware of the player’s desire. He would be super keen on joining Manchester United, but at the moment, United have not returned with an approach or a proposal to Brighton. So, at the moment, the Baleba topic, I think it’s a little bit cold.”

Baleba’s dip in form makes him a less attractive option

The 22-year-old did not perform particularly well for Brighton during the 2025/26 season. It got to the point where he lost his place in the starting eleven.

Between the 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa on February 11th and the 2-2 draw against Tottenham on April 18th, Baleba started just once in the Premier League.

The midfielder did regain his position in the final month of the season, but he is certainly not the attractive proposition he once was, especially if his club continues to demand in excess of £75m for him.

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Who could Man Utd sign instead?

Real Madrid’s Aurelien Tchouameni and Bournemouth’s Alex Scott are said to be the priority targets to strengthen Carrick’s options in the middle of the park. However, neither is currently attainable.

Chelsea’s Andrey Santos, Bournemouth’s Tyler Adams and Fulham’s Sander Berge are among the other names under consideration, with Baleba seemingly further down the shortlist.

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