Overview
- United explored a deal in the summer but stepped away after Brighton signalled a price in the £100–£115 million range, according to reports citing chief executive Paul Barber.
- Hurzeler publicly urged Baleba to stay humble and acknowledged the player may be affected by headlines linking him with a big-money move.
- Baleba missed time in July with a knee issue and has had variable minutes this season, including being dropped at Bournemouth and substituted at half-time against Tottenham.
- Multiple outlets report United are expected to revisit the midfielder in January or next summer, with Ruben Amorim identified as the driving force behind the interest.
- Brighton are described as reluctant to sell mid-season and maintain a nine-figure valuation, with longer-term sale prospects influenced by the club’s model and Baleba’s contract through 2028.