Manchester United are making a big decision about their midfield. The Red Devils have told Brighton that Toby Collyer will not be part of any swap deal for Carlos Baleba. Instead, Collyer is set to leave Old Trafford, but on loan to West Bromwich Albion.
The news comes after weeks of rumours linking United with Brighton’s star midfielder Carlos Baleba. The Cameroonian talent is valued at around £100 million, but that huge price tag is far out of Manchester United’s budget after their big summer spending spree.
Reports suggested United could offer Collyer as part of the deal to lower the cost. But according to Manchester Evening News, the club has decided against it. Collyer will not be used as a bargaining chip.
Instead, the 21-year-old will join West Brom for the rest of the season. The Championship side are aiming for promotion to the Premier League, and Collyer is expected to play a key role in their push.
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Sources say The Athletic reported that several Championship clubs were interested in signing Collyer on loan. But it was West Brom, now managed by Ryan Mason, who managed to secure the deal.
For Brighton, this is a blow. The Seagulls had hoped to bring Collyer back after he left them in 2022. But now, those plans are over, at least for this season.
Collyer has already shown he can perform at a high level. Last season, he made 19 first-team appearances for Manchester United. His most famous moment came in a January match against Fulham, when he made a crucial goal-line clearance to secure a 1-0 victory.
The midfielder was also part of United’s pre-season tour of the United States this summer. Speaking to reporters, Collyer made it clear he was ready to discuss his future with the club.
“I’ll sit down with the manager and higher-ups and see what’s the best solution. The best way for me to develop, whether it’s stay here or go on loan,” he said.
Collyer’s journey to Manchester United is an interesting one. He was born in Worthing, just 10 miles from Brighton, and came through Brighton’s youth academy. Many believed he was destined for a first-team spot at the Amex Stadium.
However, in a surprise twist, Brighton released him in 2022. That decision shocked many in football, including people at Manchester United. The Red Devils quickly acted and signed him, believing he was one of the best midfielders in his age group.
Now, under Ruben Amorim’s system at Manchester United, only two central midfielders start regularly. One of those spots is taken by captain Bruno Fernandes, meaning Collyer’s game time would be limited this season.
A loan move to West Brom offers Collyer the chance to play regular first-team football, develop his skills, and return to Manchester United stronger.
Many fans remember how players like Harvey Barnes thrived during loan spells at West Brom before becoming stars in the Premier League. Collyer will be hoping to follow a similar path.
For West Brom, signing Collyer is a big boost. Manager Ryan Mason has been looking to strengthen his midfield, and Collyer’s energy, vision, and defensive skills could be exactly what they need.
Brighton, meanwhile, will have to find another way to negotiate for Carlos Baleba if United remain interested. The £100 million asking price is still a huge obstacle.
Some United fans believe Collyer’s loan is the right move, giving him experience while keeping him in their long-term plans. Others feel he should stay and fight for his place, but Amorim’s tactical system may leave him with limited opportunities.
Only time will tell if this decision benefits all parties, United, West Brom, and Collyer himself. But for now, the young midfielder is packing his bags for The Hawthorns, ready for a new chapter in his career.
