Brighton have already set precedent with Carlos Baleba's price tag and it could be huge news for Man Utd

Brighton's sale of Joao Pedro to Chelsea this summer could be a promising sign for Manchester United in their pursuit of Carlos Baleba.

It emerged on Wednesday that intermediaries at United have made contact with Brighton in a bid to explore the conditions of a deal for 21-year-old midfielder Baleba, who has three years remaining on his contract at the Amex.

Paul Barber, the chief executive at Brighton, has since played down rumours of a move during a fans’ forum. "United have not been in touch with me," he said. "Speculation is speculation. Carlos is a fantastic talent.”

But the midfielder continues to be linked with a big-money move, with reports suggesting it would take over £100 million to sign the Cameroon international.

United, meanwhile, could potentially see Joao Pedro's £60 million transfer to Chelsea as an encouraging sign that they could buy Baleba for a cheaper price.

Pedro and Baleba played together at Brighton. Image credit: Getty

Back in April, Brighton slapped a £100 million price tag on both Pedro and Carlos Baleba as they attempted to bat away potential suitors, as talkSPORT claimed owner Tony Bloom was under no financial pressure to sell.

The Seagulls announced a record turnover of £222.4 million for the 2023/24 campaign as they continued to work wonders in the transfer market.

But three months after placing a nine-figure sum on Pedro's head and Brighton accepted a bid worth up to £60 million for the Brazilian striker, who had three years remaining on his deal at the Amex before joining Chelsea, which happens to be the same as Baleba.

Fabrizio Romano provides update on Carlos Baleba situation

Baleba has not ruled out the idea of playing under Ruben Amorim, according to Fabrizio Romano, who reiterated Brighton's desire to keep the highly-rated midfielder.

Taking to X, formerly Twitter, he wrote: "Carlos Baleba didn’t close doors to Man United after direct contact with his camp. Manchester United believe agreeing terms with Baleba terms won’t be an issue but club-to-club deal, considered very difficult."

Romano added: "Brighton want to keep Baleba this summer and won’t make it easy."

The transfer expert also confirmed that United want to sign a new midfielder before the window slams shut. Thoughts on Baleba's future? Let us know in the comments.