In a move that has shocked and amused football fans across the world, a passionate Manchester United supporter has launched a GoFundMe campaign asking for £120 million. The reason? To help United buy Brighton’s rising star midfielder Carlos Baleba.
Yes, you read that right. While most fans stick to tweeting transfer suggestions or shouting at the TV, one Red Devils fan decided to take real action. The fundraiser, created on Wednesday night, is titled “Baleba to Man Utd fund.” The page includes a picture of Baleba in his Brighton kit and a desperate caption repeated four times: “We need this to happen.”
At the time of writing, one brave person has already donated £5. It might not be much compared to the £120 million target, but it’s a start, and it’s certainly got people talking.
Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing the 21-year-old midfielder, who had a standout season for Brighton & Hove Albion. Baleba played 34 Premier League matches, scored three goals, and showed why top clubs are chasing him.
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His stats speak for themselves, he was among the best midfielders last season in tackles, interceptions, and recoveries. Add to that his strong forward passing and powerful runs, and you have a player United fans dream about.
But there’s a big problem: the price tag. Brighton don’t want to let him go for cheap. While some sources say the club wants £87 million to start talks, others suggest the asking price could go as high as £100 million. With three years left on his contract, Brighton holds all the cards.
Despite their rich history, United aren’t swimming in cash. With Financial Fair Play rules looming over them and recent signings like Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo already costing a combined £133 million, funds are tight. But some fans believe Baleba should be the top priority.
“Forget a striker,” one supporter said. “Our midfield needs strength, energy, and fight. Baleba brings all of that. He’s the future.”
Another fan added, “We’ve made mistakes in midfield signings lately. We need someone hungry and humble, and Baleba fits the bill.”
Even with the expected arrival of Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig for £74 million, the midfield position remains a concern. Manager Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-3 formation relies on dynamic midfielders, and Manuel Ugarte’s underwhelming preseason, especially against Everton, has made fans even more anxious.
Carlos Baleba’s journey is inspiring. Just a few years ago, he was still in Cameroon, unsure of what was next. His first major opportunity came with a move to Lille. But tragedy struck, he lost his mother shortly after. It was a devastating moment that still motivates him today.
Speaking to SunSport, Baleba said: “It was very difficult for me because I didn’t see my mum. I wanted her next to me, but when I signed for Brighton, she wasn’t here. That’s why the first season was really hard. I thought about her a lot. But I vowed that I would be the best version of myself and go as far as I can in my career.”
And go far he has. After just one season in England, he’s already on the radar of not just Manchester United, but also Liverpool and Manchester City. His growth has been rapid, and his emotional story has touched fans across the globe.
Brighton, known for their excellent transfer strategy, have a history of turning young players into stars. Midfielders like Alexis Mac Allister, Yves Bissouma, and Moises Caicedo have all passed through the Amex on their way to bigger clubs. Baleba could be next.
The idea of a fan-funded transfer might seem silly, but it’s a sign of how much supporters care. Ian M, the fan behind the fundraiser, might not raise £120 million, but he’s already sparked a bigger conversation. How far will fans go to help their club? And should clubs listen to them more?
Social media has exploded with reactions. Some users are mocking the idea, others are cheering it on. One tweet read: “I donated my lunch money. If we all do this, maybe we can sign Baleba before Liverpool snatch him!” Another joked: “This is what it’s come to. Glazers OUT, GoFundMe IN.”
Whether or not the fundraiser succeeds, it’s already become one of the most unexpected transfer stories of the summer. Baleba, for his part, remains quiet. He’s focused on training, working, and staying ready, wherever his future may lie.
But one thing is clear: Manchester United fans want him, and at least one of them is willing to put their money where their mouth is.
