Alious
Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba is now available for a significantly reduced fee after Manchester United’s summer bid failed, with Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich reportedly joining the chase for the Cameroonian international.
According to German journalist Philipp Kessler, Bayern are seeking a replacement for Leon Goretzka but will face competition from both Manchester United and Manchester City. Brighton had originally valued Baleba at over £100m, which blocked a move in August.
Baleba, 21, has had a difficult start to the 2025/26 season, with underwhelming statistics:
* 12 Premier League starts, 4 yellow cards
* 15 interceptions (22nd in the league)
* 14 tackles (132nd)
* 7 passes blocked (95th)
* 20 progressive passes (189th)
* 3 key passes (214th)
* 0 goals, 0 assists
Despite his dip in form, Baleba remains an ideal solution for clubs seeking a defensive-minded midfielder, a role Manchester United currently lack. Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro are Ole Gunnar Amorim’s preferred central midfield pairing, with Kobbie Mainoo and Manuel Ugarte providing backup.
Brighton coach Fabian Hurzeler acknowledged the pressure surrounding the young star, explaining that intense transfer speculation can affect a player’s performance, but noted Baleba’s potential to grow:
“When a young boy reads there is interest from Manchester United with a big, big offer, it might affect him deep down. But then to keep pushing, to be humble, stay here in Brighton, and try to make the next step with the team — that’s what we have to keep working with him.”
Baleba showed signs of improvement in Brighton’s recent Premier League clash with Aston Villa, suggesting he may be ready to rediscover form if given the right environment.
Brighton have now reportedly lowered their asking price to £74m**, making a summer move more feasible. Kessler claims Baleba is firmly on Bayern’s radar, though it is unclear if the German champions will meet that valuation. Meanwhile, Pep Guardiola is said to admire Baleba, potentially bringing Manchester City into the fray.
While Joshua Kimmich and **Aleksandar Pavlovic remain Bayern’s established midfielders, and Tom Bischof is seen as a future prospect, Baleba could emerge as a key addition if a deal is struck. Brighton may also be open to offers starting at €85m in 2026, leaving the summer window poised for one of Europe’s most-watched midfield talents.
Alious
