Bayern Munich eye Carlos Baleba as potential Goretzka replacement

Bayern Munich are reportedly intensifying their interest in Brighton & Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba as they plan for the upcoming season, with uncertainty surrounding Leon Goretzka’s future prompting the club to explore alternatives in central midfield.

Baleba, 21, has emerged as a candidate to fill the physically demanding box-to-box role that has become a priority for Bayern’s tactical setup.

According to reports, the Cameroonian international has drawn attention across Europe for his ability to win possession and drive attacks from midfield.

His performances since moving from Lille to England in 2023 have quickly established him as a key player for Brighton, and clubs including Manchester United and Manchester City are said to have closely monitored his progress.

Goretzka, 30, whose contract expires this summer, has increasingly found himself on the bench, leaving Bayern in need of a robust midfield presence to complement established starters Joshua Kimmich and Aleksandar Pavlovic.

While Tom Bischof offers depth, the club’s search continues for a midfielder capable of blending physicality, stamina, and tactical awareness, qualities Baleba is believed to possess.