Brighton & Hove Albion could reduce their asking price for Cameroonian midfielder Carlos Baleba, opening the door for a potential summer move to one of Europe’s top clubs.
The English Premier League side, which initially valued the 22-year-old at £100 million, is reportedly now willing to consider a lower fee.
Since his move from Lille in 2023, Baleba has rapidly established himself as one of Brighton’s standout performers.
His dynamic displays in the midfield have drawn attention from Manchester United, among other clubs, and the Cameroonian international is said to share mutual admiration with the Premier League giants.
Under contract with Brighton until 2028, Baleba remains a central figure in the squad.
However, Brighton’s apparent flexibility on his valuation suggests the club is preparing for a summer transfer window that could see the young star depart, while still securing a healthy profit.
Baleba was signed from Lille for £23.2 million, meaning even a negotiated sale well below the initial £100 million target would represent a substantial return on investment for the Seagulls.
The potential transfer comes at a strategic moment for Manchester United, who are expected to pursue at least one midfielder during the summer window.
Casemiro’s impending exit is anticipated to leave a significant gap in the squad, increasing the urgency for a high-calibre replacement.
Baleba’s blend of technical skill, vision, and work rate has reportedly positioned him as a priority target for the Red Devils.
Brighton, meanwhile, are thought to have already identified potential successors should Baleba leave, with Ghanaian midfielder Caleb Yirenkyi of Nordsjaelland among the names reportedly under consideration.
Baleba, who has represented Cameroon at the senior level, has featured prominently for Brighton this season despite a minor dip in form and a mid-season absence due to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in December.
He has made 29 appearances in all competitions this term, showcasing his versatility and endurance across a demanding Premier League campaign.
For Cameroon, Baleba’s rise in England is a source of pride.
The midfielder has become one of the nation’s brightest young talents, reinforcing the country’s reputation for producing high-potential players capable of excelling on the European stage.
Should the transfer materialize, it would mark another significant milestone in the career of a player many see as a future mainstay for the Indomitable Lions.
