Manchester United have a new No.1 target to bolster the middle of the park after deciding to abandon the chase for Carlos Baleba.After finishing their attacking renovation by recruiting Matheus

Manchester United have decided against trying to sign Baleba this summer after learning of Brighton's 'not for sale' stance during club-to-club talks for the Cameroonian. They have gone back to the drawing board and examined alternatives, which include Jauregizar, who is likely to cost significantly less.

We’ve identified six players that Manchester United could target as an alternative to Baleba. Manchester United were frequently linked with the Belgian powerhouse when he was at Everton. Onana ended up going to Aston Villa, while Manuel Ugarte bolstered Erik ten Hag’s midfield last summer. Penny for their thoughts on how that one worked out now.

Manchester United are forced to look elsewhere after their pursuit of Carlos Baleba is completely off due to Brighton's high demands.

It has been well documented that the Seagulls wanted at least £100million for Baleba and, crucially, they were not willing to sell him this summer. As such, The Manchester Evening News reported on Friday that United were happy to wait until next year to sign Baleba.

Carlos Baleba remains firmly in Brighton's plans. Head coach Fabian Hürzeler stated on Friday, August 15, 2025, that the player will not be leaving the club, despite approaches from Manchester United.

Manchester United's interest in Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba has left former team-mates Rio Ferdinand and Roy Keane at odds on whether they should pursue a transfer

Latest Manchester United transfer news as Brighton & Hove Albion make a decision over Carlos Baleba for their Premier League game against Fulham on Saturday