Newcastle United have Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba on their list of potential targets as they search for a new central midfielder, according to Daily Mail Sport.
The 22-year-old Cameroon international is understood to have attracted the attention of Newcastle United after the club lost Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali. Baleba is reportedly particularly admired by the club’s new head coach, Matthias Jaissle.
However, there are no active negotiations between Newcastle United and Brighton & Hove Albion at present. The immediate reason is that Baleba is currently injured, meaning any potential discussions over a move have not progressed.
Baleba’s availability has made him one of the names being considered as Newcastle United assess their midfield options. His profile has caught the eye of Jaissle, who is now in charge of the club, although no agreement or formal approach has been reported.
The midfielder played 35 matches in all competitions for Brighton & Hove Albion last season. He did not record a goal or an assist during those appearances.
According to Transfermarkt, Baleba’s current market value is €55m. That figure provides an indication of his valuation, although there is no suggestion in the report that Newcastle United have made an offer or that a transfer is close.
Baleba joined Brighton & Hove Albion’s senior set-up as a highly regarded young midfielder and has continued to feature for the club. His ability to operate in the centre of the pitch has made him an appealing option for Newcastle United as they look at potential reinforcements.
For now, Baleba remains a player on Newcastle United’s shortlist rather than the subject of an active transfer negotiation. His injury is the main factor preventing talks from moving forward, while Brighton & Hove Albion’s midfielder continues to be monitored by the Premier League club.
Daily Mail Sport reports that Newcastle United’s interest is at an early stage. The club’s admiration for Baleba, and particularly Jaissle’s reported appreciation of the player, are the main reasons he has emerged as a possible target. But with no active negotiations under way, there is currently no indication that a deal has been agreed.