Carlos Baleba could break his own unwritten Brighton rule if he joins Man Utd

Carlos Baleba could end up breaking his own unwritten rule if he decides to leave Brighton and Hove Albion for Manchester United.

On Wednesday, a huge bombshell dropped as it was revealed that United had opened dialogue with Brighton, via intermediaries, regarding the possibility of signing midfielder Baleba.

The Athletic's David Ornstein wrote on social media: "Man Utd contact Brighton via intermediaries to explore conditions of deal for Carlos Baleba. #BHAFC do not plan to sell this summer & all sides aware move may be unrealistic. But #MUFC keen + should know in coming days if plausible or not."

Signing Baleba will be another signal of intent from United, having already agreed a deal to bring RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko to Old Trafford.

However, for Baleba, he could break a rule of his own if he proceeds to leave the Seagulls for the Red Devils.

Carlos Baleba has been linked with a move to Manchester United. Image: Getty

Over the years, the likes of Moises Caicedo, Alexis Mac Allister and Joao Pedro have all been sold for big money by Brighton.

Speaking back in November 2024, Baleba was asked about following the same path of leaving Brighton for the so called bigger clubs.

He said to Sky Sports: "I don't really think like that: playing for two or three years and then leaving. Me? I just work. In my head it's all about working and helping my club.

"If I can help a team-mate, I will. If they can help me, I'll accept that help to push forward and develop. So I just work to help my team and for myself, to progress for the future."

Baleba added: "In return, everyone who helps me wants me to go to the highest level. And if there are big clubs who want me, it's not something that worries me or gets me excited. I just need to work hard and keep a cool head.

"I don't know if I'm going to be the star or the next big thing. For me, being the star is quite a lot. Everyone talking about you, singing your name? That just doesn't do it for me. It's not something that gets me running. I just prefer getting my head down and working on the pitch."

Ever since joining the club in 2023, Baleba has impressed and attracted the attention of clubs like United, Liverpool and Manchester City.