Manchester City are preparing to rival Manchester United for the signature of Brighton’s Carlos Baleba, with the Seagulls demanding a hefty £104 million for the 21-year-old midfielder.
According to ESPN, United made initial contact through intermediaries earlier this week as they target a new No.6, making the Cameroonian their top priority. Initial estimates placed his value at £90 million plus £10 million in add-ons, but Brighton have now set their asking price at €120m (£104m).
City manager Pep Guardiola is said to be a long-time admirer of Baleba, and the Premier League champions have entered the race to secure his services. However, Brighton remain determined to keep the player at the Amex Stadium for at least another season.
Baleba, who joined Brighton in 2023, has been a standout performer in midfield, attracting interest from several top European clubs. The battle between the Manchester rivals could become one of the transfer window’s biggest sagas if neither side backs down.
