Carlos Baleva was widely reported to be moving to Manchester United in the summer transfer window, but the deal never materialized as Brighton demanded a huge transfer fee.
Former Premier League striker Paul Dickov has given Carlos Baleva advice on how to justify his hefty £110m price tag amid growing interest from Manchester United. According to reports, the Red Devils had their eye on the 21-year-old in the summer transfer window, but balked at the asking price.
Brighton signed the Cameroon star in 2023 for a modest £23m. Since then, he has made his international debut and become a key player for the Seagulls, who currently sit comfortably mid-table in the Premier League table, just two points behind United.
Baleva was said to be keen on a move to Old Trafford, but a deal never materialized. Brighton appear to hold all the cards in this ongoing transfer saga, with the youngster’s contract not expiring until 2028, with an option for a further year.
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United are still reportedly interested in the defensive midfielder, despite a slow start to the season after his outstanding performances last season. But Dickoff doesn’t fully understand the hefty price tag.
The former Scotland international believes Valeva needs to focus on his game before considering a big-money move, reports the Manchester Evening News.
He said in an interview with Best Betting Bonuses: “I didn’t think he was worth £110m in the summer, but he’s a great player. He’s still very young.
“Sometimes in the summer, the speculation and pressure surrounding him can affect the players. As you know, he has improved in the last few games, but this season he has struggled.”
“Maybe that’s the pressure that’s been put on him. Sometimes the price tag, the talk of going to a club like United or Chelsea or wherever it is, that affects you.”
“I think what he needs to do is focus on himself first and foremost and try to get back to where he was outstanding last season.
“If he can do that, a lot of clubs will come knocking and come back. But I’m not too sure about the £110m.”
Given that Casemiro’s contract runs until 2026, Baleva could be seen as a potential long-term successor. However, Amorim may face a difficult decision next summer, as the experienced Brazilian shows new vigor on the field.
United are also said to be monitoring Elliott Anderson, who offers similar quality to Baleva. Then again, if United are serious about pursuing Anderson, they will likely need to shell out around £100m for the Nottingham Forest star.
Man United and Brighton have already faced each other this season, with Amorim’s side winning 4-2. The next fixture is the final round of the Premier League and could be Baleva’s last meeting with Brighton’s future club.
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