Man Utd learn Carlos Baleba price tag as Brighton respond to transfer rumour with defiant statement

Manchester United will need to make a club-record offer if they want to secure the services of Carlos Baleba this summer, according to reports, after Brighton's stance was made clear in a defiant statement.

In an unexpected development on Wednesday evening, it emerged that intermediaries at Manchester United have made contact with Brighton in a bid to explore the conditions of a deal for Baleba, who has three years remaining on his contract at the Amex.

Brighton, meanwhile, are keen to keep hold of their biggest asset for at least another year, according to The Athletic.

Baleba has been a revelation for Brighton since joining from Lille in 2023. Image credit: Getty

In fact, the club's chief executive, Paul Barber, made a telling statement when asked about reports surrounding Baleba's future during a fans’ forum on Wednesday, as he played down suggestions of a deal being made.

"There’s always going to be interest in our players," he said. "United have not been in touch with me. Speculation is speculation. Carlos is a fantastic talent.”

United learn how much it would take to sign Carlos Baleba

If United want to secure a deal for Baleba this summer, then it's going to take a monumental bid. A report from TBR Football suggests it would take over £100 million to sign the Cameroon international, although Brighton are 'not planning to let him go'.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, meanwhile, has reiterated Brighton's stance on the matter, although he claims Baleba has not ruled out the idea of playing under Ruben Amorim.

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."

Manchester United are keen on bringing Baleba to Old Trafford this summer. Image credit: Getty

The transfer expert also confirmed on Wednesday that United want to sign a new midfielder before the window slams shut.

Benjamin Sesko on the verge of joining United

After weeks of speculation, Sesko is said to have reached a total agreement with United regarding personal terms, and a five-year contract has been agreed between United and the Slovenian striker, according to Romano.

Sesko's preference has always been to join the ranks at Old Trafford amid strong interest from Newcastle.

It is said talks are ongoing regarding a transfer fee, but widespread reports claim the Reds have made a proposal worth €75 million plus €10 million after Newcastle tabled an offer of €75 million plus €5 million in add-ons.

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