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

Manchester United are in the middle of their preparations for their Premier League opener against Arsenal at Old Trafford but transfer still remain on the agenda for the Red Devils

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.

Liverpool have confirmed the arrival of Giovanni Leoni from Parma, though last night's 4-2 win over Bournemouth may have highlighted the need to push through a deal for Marc Guehi in this window. There has been a fresh update regarding the future of Alexander Isak as he is set to miss Newcastle's opening game of the campaign.

The 21-year-old Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder has been United’s top target to strengthen in the No. 6 position.

Manchester United could explore a move for Sevilla midfielder Lucien Agoume before the transfer deadline, Spanish publication Fichajes has claimed. The Red Devils have reportedly identified the 23-year-old Frenchman as a potential alternative to Brighton ace Carlos Baleba, and are closely monitoring him with just over two weeks left in the market.

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 will go after Carlos Baleba again next year after pulling the plug on their pursuit of the midfielder this summer. United, who were keen on signing the youngster in this window at Ruben Amorim's behest,

MANCHESTER UNITED continue to pursue HUGE summer transfer business to improve the outlook at Old Trafford! But the Red Devils have decided that they will NOT proceed with any Carlos Baleba move

Fabrizio Romano has revealed Manchester United still intend to sign Carlos Baleba despite Brighton making a deal this summer impossible, and reports have detailed the club's midfield masterplan with a new face expected to arrive over the next two weeks.