Manchester United have stepped up their efforts to sign Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba, with the Premier League giants submitting an official bid worth more than €70 million plus a further €6 million in potential add-ons.
According to football journalist David Ornstein, United have formally approached Brighton with the proposal as they look to strengthen their midfield ahead of the new season.
Despite the substantial offer, there is currently no agreement between Manchester United and Brighton over the transfer.
However, United are expected to return with an improved bid as negotiations continue between the two clubs.
Baleba has reportedly been a long-term target for Manchester United, with the Cameroon international understood to have been pushing for a move to Old Trafford since August 2025.
The 22-year-old midfielder has established himself as one of the most promising young midfielders in the Premier League since joining Brighton.
His combination of physical strength, ball-winning ability, composure in possession and ability to drive forward has made him an attractive option for United.
Manchester United are keen to add greater energy and athleticism to their midfield, and Baleba is believed to fit the profile of the player the club wants to build around.
The latest bid, valued at over €76 million in total when the potential add-ons are included, underlines United’s determination to secure the midfielder.
However, Brighton’s stance will be crucial, particularly given Baleba’s importance to the club and the player’s contract situation.
With no club-to-club agreement reached yet, negotiations are expected to continue in the coming days. United are prepared to submit another offer as they attempt to convince Brighton to sanction the transfer.
Baleba’s desire to join Manchester United could also become an important factor as discussions progress, with the midfielder having reportedly wanted the move since last year.
If the deal is completed, Baleba would become another major addition to United’s squad and could play a significant role in the club’s midfield plans for the new campaign.
For now, however, the transfer remains at the negotiation stage, with Manchester United waiting to see whether an improved proposal can bring Brighton closer to accepting a deal for the highly-rated midfielder.
