Carlos Baleba Wants Manchester United Again – Should the Red Devils Reignite the Deal?

Manchester United’s search for a new defensive midfielder may have taken another interesting twist.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Carlos Baleba’s representatives have once again contacted Manchester United to find out whether the club would be interested in reviving a move that came incredibly close to happening just a year ago.

A Transfer That Almost Happened

Back in August 2025, Baleba was one of Manchester United’s priority midfield targets under then-manager Ruben Amorim.

The Cameroonian midfielder was reportedly so eager to make the move that he agreed personal terms with United. Everything appeared to be moving in the right direction.

However, Brighton refused to sell one of their brightest young talents, and the deal collapsed before it could be completed.

When Amorim left Old Trafford in January, United’s interest naturally cooled as the club shifted its focus under a new coaching setup.

Baleba Still Wants Old Trafford

Fast forward to this summer, and the story has taken another turn.

Following the collapse of another potential move elsewhere, Baleba’s camp has reportedly reached out to Manchester United once again to see if the club would be willing to reopen discussions.

The message is clear: the player remains keen on joining Manchester United.

With the Red Devils still searching for another defensive midfielder, the timing could be perfect for both sides.

Will United Make Their Move?

The biggest question now is whether Manchester United still view Baleba as the right player for their midfield rebuild.

The club has already strengthened the middle of the pitch with the arrivals of Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans, but reports continue to suggest that Michael Carrick would welcome another midfielder capable of protecting the defence and controlling games.

Baleba certainly fits that profile. He combines physicality, athleticism, excellent ball-winning ability, and the confidence to drive forward with possession. At just 22, he also represents a long-term investment with significant room for development.

The only obstacle, as before, could be Brighton’s valuation. The Seagulls are well known for driving hard bargains, and they are unlikely to let one of their key players leave cheaply.

My Opinion

If Brighton are willing to negotiate at a realistic price, Manchester United should seriously consider bringing Carlos Baleba to Old Trafford.

He has already shown his commitment by trying to force the move last year, and players who genuinely want to wear the United shirt often arrive with the hunger supporters appreciate.

Baleba also offers qualities United have lacked in recent seasons: energy, defensive awareness, ball-carrying ability, and the athleticism to dominate Premier League midfields.

Of course, United must remain disciplined financially. Overpaying for any player would go against the smarter transfer strategy the club appears to be following this summer.

Final Thoughts

Carlos Baleba’s desire to join Manchester United has never disappeared. One year after a move collapsed at the final hurdle, the opportunity may have returned.

Whether the Red Devils decide to revive negotiations now depends on their priorities, Brighton’s demands, and how the rest of the transfer window unfolds.

One thing is certain: this is a transfer story that United fans should keep a very close eye on over the coming weeks.