Manchester United end Carlos Baleba chase as midfield focus shifts

​Manchester United have effectively drawn a line under their interest in Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, signalling a clear change in transfer strategy.

Once viewed as a serious option to succeed Casemiro, the 22-year-old Cameroonian midfielder is no longer among the club’s priority targets, with the recruitment team now looking elsewhere for midfield reinforcement.

Manchester United had tracked Baleba closely and even made an attempt to sign him last summer, impressed by his energy, ball-carrying and potential ceiling. However, his dip in form this season appears to have cooled enthusiasm at Old Trafford, with decision-makers preferring options who are already performing at a consistently high level in the Premier League.

The club has now narrowed its shortlist to three alternative midfielders, making it clear that Baleba has slipped down the pecking order. For the player, it means any hopes of a big move to Manchester are on hold for now, and the focus must return to rebuilding confidence and form at Brighton.

A strong response on the South Coast could yet revive elite interest in the future, but for the moment, United have moved on.