The transfer window drama is not slowing down, and Manchester United are once again at the center of it. This time, the name on everyone’s lips is Carlos Baleba, the Brighton midfielder who continues to be linked with a blockbuster move worth more than £100 million.
But while United fans dream of seeing him in red, Baleba’s latest social media post has left people wondering: is he hinting at a move, or simply shutting down the rumours?
Manchester United have been actively searching for midfield reinforcements before the transfer window closes. Reports suggest that they looked at Baleba as one of their big-money targets. Brighton, however, are not easy negotiators. The Seagulls are said to value the 21-year-old at around £100–120 million, a price tag that already scared off several potential suitors.
According to The Athletic, Manchester United have now stepped back from the deal, at least for this summer. The report claims that United have “ceased” their pursuit of Baleba. Still, that has not killed the speculation. In fact, the rumors are louder than ever, especially after Baleba’s online activity caught attention.
📰 Also Read This:
Baleba’s compatriot Bryan Mbeumo, who recently joined Manchester United, made his debut during the club’s narrow 1-0 defeat to Arsenal at Old Trafford. After the game, Mbeumo took to Instagram, writing:
“It’s not the start we wanted but we stay positive for the next one. Thank you for the huge support today from the start til the end. You deserved so much more today.”
The post seemed like a normal message of encouragement. But what caught fans’ eyes was that Carlos Baleba “liked” the post. For many, this was a sign that Baleba is closely watching Manchester United and already feels a connection with his countryman.
Fans immediately began speculating that this could be more than just a friendly gesture. Was Baleba subtly showing his interest in joining Mbeumo at United? Or was it simply support from one player to another?
While the speculation grew, Baleba quietly went about his job on the pitch. He started for Brighton in their Premier League opener against Fulham, which ended in a 1-1 draw. After the match, he once again turned to social media, this time with a more cryptic message.
Baleba posted several pictures of himself playing, adding the caption:
“Just me doing the thing I love most. Had fun playing at home with the boys. Nothing new here, just my number and a haircut.”
For many Brighton fans, this was nothing more than a casual post. But others linked it to the recent comments from Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler, who had been asked about Baleba’s future.
When pressed by journalists about whether Baleba would stay, Hurzeler confidently replied:
“I am very, very confident. I didn’t see any change, he’s only changed his hair. I think that’s the change he’s made in the last two weeks. But overall, he seems to be in a really good place, he’s enjoying it with his teammates, he’s enjoying being a Brighton player. I didn’t see any big changes and he’s an option to start.”
Baleba’s post about “just my number and a haircut” looked like a direct nod to his manager’s remarks. It was as if he was confirming to fans that nothing has really changed about his future.
Still, the fact that Manchester United remain desperate for midfield depth keeps the rumor alive. Even if no deal happens this summer, many believe United could return next year with a stronger push for the player.
Supporters online are split. Some believe that Brighton’s valuation of £100–120 million is simply too high for a player who is still developing. Others argue that Baleba’s strength, energy, and composure on the ball are exactly what Manchester United need in their midfield.
The timing also adds fuel to the fire. United’s midfield struggled in their match against Arsenal, leaving many fans calling for urgent reinforcements. The lack of creativity and control in the middle only made the idea of signing Baleba more appealing.
For now, Brighton remain firm. They are not in a rush to sell one of their most prized assets, and Baleba seems happy at the club. His body language on the pitch and his words online suggest that he is focused on enjoying football with his teammates.
But football is unpredictable. Transfers can change in an instant, and United’s financial power means the door is never fully closed.
For Manchester United, the message is clear: if they truly want Baleba, they will need to spend big. For Baleba, the challenge is simple: keep performing at the highest level and let the future take care of itself.
