With the signing of RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko now imminent, manager Ruben Amorim is now looking to bolster his midfield with Brighton star Baleba who could take the club’s spending well over £200M.
The Seagulls have reportedly slapped a £100M price tag on the 21-year-old who was signed for £23.2M back in 2023. Amorim is looking for an upgrade on the the ageing Casemiro and injury-prone Mason Mount and is not put off by such a price tag that will likely be cut down if negotiations do begin.
However, ESPN have confirmed Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola's is very interested in Baleba but is unclear as to whether the side would look to match any United bid, especially after already spending £50M on midfielder Tijjani Reijnders earlier this summer.
Baleba’s wages have also been revealed and they are shockingly low compared to many United starts such as Casemiro who is on £350,000 per week whilst captain Bruno Fernandes is on £300,000 per week. As reported by Capology, Baleba earns around £12,500 per week, equal to £650,000 per year.
This is significant as United could offer him vastly more each week, potentially up to ten times his current wages if he does make the move to The Red Devils who are keen on bringing him to the side once Sesko’s deal is completed this weekend. This news is backed up by journalist Fabrizio Romano who confirmed their interest earlie this week.
“Manchester United approached Carlos Baleba’s camp this week to be informed on player’s situation.
“Brighton plan to keep Baleba at the club as price tag would be very high, seen as difficult deal.
“#MUFC plan to try get new midfielder after Šeško deal this summer.”