Carlos Baleva has reportedly held private talks with Fabian Hürzeler amid rumors of a link to Manchester United. The 21-year-old Brighton midfielder has been a hot topic this summer, with the Red Devils holding talks with the Seagulls over his signature. Despite his defensive tendencies, the young talent shone at the Amex Stadium last season, scoring three goals in 34 Premier League appearances.
Ruben Amorim and the Manchester United board were keen to secure his appointment for the 2025/26 season. However, the huge £100m price Brighton paid for the Cameroonian proved too high for United’s tastes. As a result, Baleva remained on the southeast coast. However, recent reports suggest he has been substituted at half-time three times this season, sparking speculation of unrest at Brighton.
The Sun reports that although Baleva has reaffirmed his commitment to Hürzeler and his current club, United are keeping a close eye on Baleva’s situation. This is likely to prevent a departure in January, but it may not deter United from resuming talks with Brighton next summer.
United’s board’s decision not to strengthen their midfield this summer, instead spending more than £200m on a new attacking trio of Matheus Cunha, Brian Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko, has left pundits and fans perplexed.
Some also question whether Amorim’s preferred 3-4-2-1 formation is suitable for the Premier League, especially given Bruno Fernandes’ natural inclination towards an attacking role and 33-year-old Casemiro’s reduced mobility.
The promising Baleva could be a solution to Amorim’s midfield woes, but with the January transfer window still a long way off, the Portuguese manager may need to find a solution within his current squad.
Meanwhile, United are reportedly eyeing VfB Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller as a potential move in the new year. The 24-year-old has been in the spotlight in the Bundesliga this season, scoring one goal and providing two assists in seven appearances.
Sky Sports Germany suggest Stuttgart could demand more than £43 million for the German international, making him a more affordable alternative to Baleva.
