Cameroon head coach Marc Brys has expressed unwavering confidence in Carlos Baleba’s readiness to take the next step in his burgeoning career, describing the Brighton midfielder as a talent destined for the game’s highest stage.
Baleba, just 21 years old, has enjoyed a breakout season with Brighton & Hove Albion following his move from Lille in the summer of 2023.
Brys shared glowing praise for the Douala-born player, who has become a mainstay in both the Premier League and the Cameroonian national setup.
“Ah, Carlos… He’s truly a talent. He’s young, and capable of achieving high-level results,” Brys said. “I’ve seen several of his Premier League matches, and he’s impressed me at times. He also seems to be receiving good advice…”
The Belgian coach went a step further, making a bold prediction about the midfielder’s trajectory: “I think he’s ready to play for a big team… He has a very bright future ahead of him. Let him keep working and keep a cool head.”
Baleba’s influence at Brighton has grown rapidly. Over the course of the 2024/25 season, he made 34 Premier League appearances, scored three goals, and provided one assist.
But it’s his composure in midfield, control of tempo, and physical authority in duels that have caught the attention of supporters and scouts alike.
His performances earned him the title of second-best player at the club, finishing just behind Dutch defender Jan Paul van Hecke in the fan voting.
Carlos Baleba vs Arsenal (H) pic.twitter.com/oBn2tvMdCn
— ☔️🫧☔️ (@Sp1thfc) June 25, 2025
Brighton, fully aware of the asset they hold, are reportedly demanding a staggering €117 million for any potential transfer—a valuation that could place Baleba among the most expensive African footballers of all time.
That lofty price tag, however, has done little to cool the interest of some of Europe’s most ambitious clubs.
Newcastle United are said to be leading the charge, seeing Baleba as a key figure to reinforce their midfield ahead of a crucial campaign in both domestic and continental competitions.
Liverpool are also firmly in the race, with the club searching for a long-term midfield solution to usher in a new era.
Chelsea continue to monitor Baleba’s development closely, despite already having significant depth in the position, while Manchester City are reportedly charmed by his profile and maturity.
With a contract running until 2028, Brighton holds the cards, but Baleba’s future looks set to be one of the defining stories of the upcoming transfer window.
And with the endorsement of his national team coach and the Premier League’s elite circling, the next move for Carlos Baleba could be the one that cements his place among football’s brightest stars.
