The transfer window drama is far from over, and Manchester United are right in the thick of it. In the coming hours, United and Brighton will hold fresh talks as the Red Devils prepare to table an official bid for Cameroonian International Carlos Baleba, one of the Premier League’s most promising young midfielders.

Sources close to the player say Baleba is not just open to the move, he is actively keen on wearing the famous red shirt. The 21-year-old has been on United’s radar for months, with scouts impressed by his physicality, tactical awareness, and ability to break up play while driving the ball forward.

Why Baleba?

Manchester United’s midfield has been under scrutiny, with fans and pundits calling for more energy, ball-winning ability, and composure in transition. While Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes remain key figures, United’s lack of depth and consistency in central areas has been a glaring weakness.

Baleba’s profile fits the bill perfectly:

Age & Potential: At just 21, he is seen as a long-term investment.

Premier League Ready: Already acclimatised to the pace and physicality of English football with Brighton.

Versatility: Can play as a deep-lying midfielder or in a box-to-box role.

Brighton’s Quiet Moves Behind the Scenes

While United are pushing forward, Brighton are not sitting idle. Multiple sources suggest the Seagulls have already begun discreetly scouting for a possible replacement, a clear signal that they are preparing for the likelihood of Baleba’s departure. Brighton have a strong track record of selling at the right time and reinvesting wisely, so expect them to already have a shortlist ready.

What This Means for United

If this deal goes through, it could be the midfield reset Erik ten Hag desperately needs. Baleba would bring:

Fresh Legs in Midfield: Covering more ground and adding energy.

Tactical Balance: Allowing Bruno and other attackers to push higher without fear of defensive gaps.

Future Leadership Potential: A player who could grow into a central figure for years to come.

But There’s a Catch…

Brighton are known for driving a hard bargain, and they will not let Baleba leave cheaply. The question is, will United be willing to pay the premium, or will negotiations drag out until the final days of the window?

Whatever happens, this could be one of those signings fans look back on as a turning point for better or worse.

Over to you, United fans — should the club go all in for Baleba? Or should they look elsewhere before the deadline shuts?