AliousRoy Keane Praises Brighton’s Recruitment as Carlos Baleba Emerges as Next Big Star**
Former **Manchester United and Celtic midfielder Roy Keane** has hailed Brighton’s exceptional recruitment strategy, highlighting **Carlos Baleba** as the latest in a long line of talents developed by the Seagulls.
Carlos Baleba Impressing at Brighton**
The **21-year-old Cameroonian midfielder** has quickly made his mark since arriving from **Lille in 2023 for £22 million**, stepping into the void left by **Moises Caicedo’s record-breaking £115 million transfer to Chelsea**. Baleba’s mix of **power, skill, and technical ability** has drawn comparisons to both **Caicedo and Yves Bissouma**, former Brighton midfielders who went on to secure high-profile moves to Premier League giants.
This season, Baleba has contributed **two goals and three assists** in **27 appearances across all competitions**, attracting interest from **Liverpool and Chelsea** ahead of the summer transfer window.
Keane Lauds Brighton’s Exceptional Scouting and Development**
Speaking on **ITV**, Keane expressed admiration for Brighton’s **ability to consistently identify, nurture, and sell top-quality players** for significant profit.
_”It’ll be interesting to see what happens this summer. Fantastic. The way Brighton operates is incredible—other clubs must be looking at them and wondering, ‘How are they doing it?’”_ Keane said.
_”Their recruitment is outstanding. They clearly do their homework, not just with players but also with their managerial appointments. The way they sign, develop, and sell players at a profit is just brilliant. And Baleba looks like another one to watch. He’s got a great chance to be a top player.”_
Keane Questions Brighton’s Long-Term Ambition**
While praising Brighton’s success in the transfer market, **Keane raised concerns about the club’s tendency to sell their best players**, questioning whether this approach is limiting their long-term potential.
In recent years, Brighton have **cashed in on stars like Caicedo, Bissouma, Alexis Mac Allister, Leandro Trossard, and Marc Cucurella**, making substantial profits. However, they **turned down a significant offer from Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr** for **Japan international Kaoru Mitoma last month**, suggesting a possible shift in strategy.
_”At some point, you have to wonder—when will Brighton decide to hold onto their best players and push for something bigger?”_ Keane pondered.
_”Right now, it works well for them as a club. They run efficiently, they scout brilliantly, and they get great value in the market. But when do they say, ‘Let’s stop selling, let’s keep these players and push towards European competition?’”_
With **Baleba’s rapid development**, the upcoming transfer window could be crucial in determining whether Brighton **stick to their business model or take the next step in their evolution** as a club.
Alious
