Manchester United’s pursuit of Carlos Baleba has dominated recent transfer headlines. Fresh reports suggest not just interest, but mounting obstacles  and a hint that Liverpool may be lurking around the corner. With Brighton standing firm and Brighton’s valuation sky-high, the question is: did United move too slowly?

What We Know: Verified Facts

Brighton signed Baleba from Lille in Summer 2023 for about €27m (+ add-ons). He signed a five-year contract with the club.

Baleba remains under contract until 2028, giving Brighton strong negotiating power.

The club’s model is clear: develop young talents, with occasional big sales when the price is right. Brighton’s owner Tony Bloom and CEO Paul Barber have both publicly said Baleba is “not for sale this summer” unless an offer matches their valuation.

Brighton have set their valuation figure at around £100-£115 million (or more) for Baleba. They are rejecting lower offers and have previously turned down a player-plus-cash swap from Man Utd.

The Latest Twist: Liverpool’s Role & United’s Hesitation

Liverpool are reportedly interested in Baleba, but for now have ruled out launching a big-money bid this summer. Their squad depth in midfield and other priorities are cited as reasons.

Meanwhile, Manchester United did make contact with Brighton and were preparing a bid. Discussions included a potential player-plus-cash swap involving Toby Collyer. But Brighton rejected the approach, holding out for the full valuation.

Reports suggest that United could fund their pursuit in part by selling fringe players, with rumours about Garnacho, Sancho, etc., being on the move. However, as of now, no official sale has been confirmed.

Why This Matters

Valuation vs Timing: Brighton’s high valuation price has deterred suitors  United likely needed to commit a record fee to pry Baleba away. Their hesitancy may have given others time to weigh in.

Liverpool as Dark Horse: If Brighton truly are “not for sale” this window, stronger clubs willing to wait or meet the price might benefit. Liverpool could be setting themselves up for next year.

Squad balance & identity: For United, Baleba represents a dynamic, energetic midfield profile  something Amorim wants. But the risk is overpaying or destabilizing finances, especially under pressure.

What’s Next?

United likely need to decide: either meet Brighton’s valuation (or close enough), or shift focus to alternative midfield targets like Adam Wharton.

Brighton will continue to hold out, hoping for a “right offer” but may also prepare successors or internal solutions if Baleba leaves.

Liverpool might re-open negotiations next summer, especially if United’s pursuit fails or prices adjust.

Final Word

Manchester United’s chase of Carlos Baleba has all the makings of a headline-grabbing scandal — a huge fee, a club refusing to sell, and rivals waiting in the wings. For now, Brighton keeps tight control. United needed more decisiveness; Liverpool might end up being patient and strategic and reaping the rewards later.