Paul Barber, chief executive and vice-chairman of Brighton and Hove Albion, denied the proposal that Manchester United had contacted Carlos Beleva’s club. However, Barber left Door Ajar for a potential move before the summer transfer deadline, amid strengthening his link with the Old Trafford Switch.
On Wednesday evening, multiple reports broke that United were in discussions with Brighton about Baleba’s potential deal. However, all involved are said to recognize that this summer’s move will be extremely complicated due to the Seagulls’ lack of selling and the asking price that follows.
United are allegedly approached through intermediaries to explore the terms of the deal that adds Baleva to the middle of Reuben Amorim.
But Barber denied these claims, highlighting Brighton’s desire to retain the 21-year-old midfielder for as long as possible.
“I’ve always been interested in our players. Manchester United hasn’t been in touch with me,” Barber explained at a fan event.
“Speculation is speculation. Carlos is a great talent. I hope he will come here for years to come, but that will be subject to the dynamics of the world of football that is not always predictable.”
For the latest broken stories and headlines, sign up for the Daily Express MUFC newsletter or join our WhatsApp community here.
Valeva has flourished as one of the Premier League’s most highly rated young midfielders since joining from Lille in 2023 on a £26 million contract.
Amorim desperately needs an athletic midfielder to play alongside Bruno Fernandez and Cobby Mine on the Old Trafford 3-4-3 system.
Baleba fits perfectly with the bill and carved boxes of Premier League experiences like Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo.
However, given that the club’s summer spending will exceed £200 million when Benjamin Sesco arrives, United could need significant player sales to fund a concrete pursuit.
For the latest broken stories and headlines, sign up for the Daily Express Transfer Newsletter.
Alejandro Garnacho, Antony, Jadon Sancho and Tyrell Malacia remained exiled in Carrington and are expected to leave forever.
United will also be looking for buyers for Rasmus Hojlund once Sesko completes the switch.
Casemiro, Manuel Ugarte and Toby Collyer are currently representing Amorim options in partnership with Fernandes and Mainoo.
However, Casemiro will turn 34 this season, Collyer is set to leave loan, and the ju umpire is still strong in Ugarte.
