Manchester United could become Carlos Baleba’s preferred destination if they decide to pursue the Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder, according to journalist Ben Jacobs. A move from United would reportedly lead the player to reject interest from other clubs, including Newcastle United, who are also monitoring the situation.
Newcastle United are understood to be interested in Baleba, but Jacobs says the Magpies are not the only club considering a move for the Cameroon international. Manchester United’s potential involvement could significantly change the balance of the transfer race, with Baleba said to be ready to prioritise a move to Old Trafford over other options.
Speaking about the midfielder, Jacobs said: “Baleba is a transfer target for Newcastle United, but the Magpies are not the only ones interested in him. If Manchester United decides to pursue this player, Baleba will prioritize Manchester United and reject all other teams.
“The obstacle remains Brighton & Hove Albion’s asking price, and Manchester United is unwilling to pay an inflated transfer fee. In addition, Baleba is currently injured, and any club interested in signing him will want to confirm his return time and recovery status.”
The asking price set by Brighton & Hove Albion remains the main barrier to any potential deal. Manchester United are not prepared to pay what they consider an inflated transfer fee, meaning negotiations would depend on whether the Premier League club is willing to moderate its demands.
Baleba’s current injury is another factor that could affect the transfer process. Any interested club is expected to seek further confirmation about his recovery, including how long he will be unavailable and when he is likely to return to action. That information could influence a club’s willingness to commit to a major transfer fee.
For now, Newcastle United remain among the clubs interested in the player, but Manchester United’s possible entry into the race could give them an advantage. According to Jacobs, Baleba would put United ahead of the other teams pursuing him if the club made a formal decision to sign him.
The midfielder’s availability, Brighton & Hove Albion’s valuation and Manchester United’s reluctance to overpay will therefore be central to the next stage of the situation. Until those issues are clarified, no agreement has been reported, despite the growing interest in Baleba.
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