Revealed: Man United lead race for potential £100m-plus transfer despite City also being keen
Carlos Baleba’s transfer saga has turned into a new battleground between Premier League giants Manchester United and Manchester City.
The 21-year-old Brighton central midfielder has caught the eye of top European clubs thanks to his technical ability and huge potential, but Man United are currently understood to be leading the race for his signature, CaughtOffside understands.
Multiple sources have confirmed that Man City are also stepping up their interest in Baleba as Pep Guardiola is a huge personal admirer of the Cameroon international.
However, one source, remaining anonymous to protect relationships in the industry, told CaughtOffside: “United have been in talks with Baleba for weeks. They’ve already agreed personal terms — contract length and salary are sorted. Baleba has told Brighton he wants to leave and made it clear that his preferred destination is Old Trafford. Brighton, however, are playing it cautious. With the player under contract until 2028, they’re using that leverage to demand a massive transfer fee.”
Carlos Baleba being closely tracked by both Manchester clubs
Meanwhile, CaughtOffside have also been told that City are keeping close tabs on Baleba. Guardiola is known to be a long-time admirer and sees him as a future piece of City’s midfield.
However, no official bid has been made as of yet, while some sources have suggested that City’s interest has only pushed United to act faster in talks with Baleba and Brighton.
Brighton signed Baleba from Lille two years ago for €27 million. Now, they’re looking to cash in with a much higher price tag. His absence from Brighton’s friendly against Wolfsburg was seen as a strong sign that negotiations are moving forward.
After landing Benjamin Sesko, United are now aiming to build a new midfield core with Baleba. His profile fits perfectly with Ruben Amorim’s tactical setup, making this move not just ambitious, but also smart from a footballing point of view.
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