Manchester United remain optimistic about landing Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, with reports suggesting personal terms are unlikely to pose a barrier in negotiations as reported by Manchester Evening News.
The 21-year-old is one of United's midfield targets this summer, and the club has reportedly initiated contact with Brighton to explore a possible deal.
While Brighton's top brass publicly denied direct discussions, comments from chief executive Paul Barber hinted at the unpredictability of the market.
“Speculation is speculation, the dynamics of the football world are not always predictable,” Barber stated, acknowledging Baleba’s rising profile without confirming any concrete negotiations.
Though Brighton have maintained a stance that Baleba is not for sale, the midfielder's contract situation could present an opening.
Baleba is reportedly on just £12,500 per week at the Amex Stadium, a modest figure compared to the Premier League average and significantly lower than many of United’s squad members.
Fabrizio Romano reports that during contact with United representatives, Baleba did not reject the possibility of a move, a signal that he may be open to switching sides if the financial package is appealing.
With Brighton’s current top earners pocketing around £80,000–£87,500 weekly, a substantial wage offer from United could both turn Baleba’s head and pressure Brighton into making a decision, either tie him down with a new lucrative contract or consider a sale.
Although a summer move remains challenging due to Brighton's resistance and United’s own budget constraints, the Red Devils believe they can use their financial edge to gain the upper hand in what could develop into one of the window’s most intriguing sagas.