Overview

• Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler said he was “very, very, very confident” that Carlos Baleba will remain at the Amex Stadium this summer.
• Fabrizio Romano says Manchester United will keep Baleba on their shortlist and plan to reignite their pursuit in 2026 after Brighton blocked any summer departure.
• Having already invested nearly £200 million on Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha, United have prioritised attacking reinforcements and delayed midfield spending.
• At 21, Baleba is reported to be eager to join Old Trafford but is willing to wait until next year if Brighton refuse to sell.
• Former United figures Roy Keane and Gary Neville warned that paying a £100 million-plus fee for an unproven teenager poses financial risks and noted lingering squad gaps.