Man Utd and City Compete for Baleba Transfer

Manchester United are pursuing Brighton's 21-year-old midfielder Carlos Baleba, who is valued between £104–£115 million by his club. Brighton's chief executive, Paul Barber, has denied any direct contact from United and maintains that Baleba is not for sale, though market unpredictability is acknowledged. Manchester City is also interested in Baleba, increasing competition for his signature. United face financial constraints due to recent major expenditures, including the imminent £74 million signing of Benjamin Sesko, and must sell players to fund any move for Baleba. Baleba is reportedly willing to stay at Brighton another season if a transfer does not occur, but United believe personal terms would not be an obstacle. The transfer situation remains fluid as the window progresses.