Manchester United submit €70m-plus bid for Cameroon midfielder Carlos Baleba

Manchester United have reportedly stepped up their efforts to finally strengthen the holding midfield position, with Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba emerging as their primary target.

As per reports, the Premier League giants have submitted an official offer worth more than €70 million, with a further €6 million in performance-related bonuses, for the 22-year-old Cameroonian international.

However, Brighton have yet to accept the proposal, with the two clubs still apart in their valuation of the midfielder.

Despite the initial setback, Manchester United are reportedly determined to complete the deal and are already preparing an improved offer in an attempt to convince Brighton to sell their midfield anchor.

Baleba is understood to be keen on the move himself. According to Fabrizio Romano, the Cameroon international has been pushing for a transfer to Old Trafford since August 2025, meaning United are not expected to encounter major difficulties in negotiating personal terms with the player.

The midfielder has established himself as an important figure at Brighton since arriving in England and enjoyed another productive Premier League campaign last season.

During the 2025/26 season, Baleba made 31 Premier League appearances, further underlining his importance to the Seagulls.

His combination of physical strength, defensive ability, ball-carrying qualities and composure in possession has made him an attractive option for Manchester United as they look to strengthen the heart of their midfield.

The reported offer would represent a major investment from United, particularly given that Transfermarkt currently places Baleba’s market value at around €55 million.

Nevertheless, Manchester United appear prepared to go significantly higher in their attempt to secure the Cameroonian’s signature.

With Brighton yet to accept the opening proposal and United preparing another bid, negotiations are expected to continue as the Premier League giants push to bring Baleba to Old Trafford.