Manchester United are pursuing Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, after signing three forwards.
Ineos are making enquiries over Brighton’s rising star Carlos Baleba, and it is clear this is a deal that will not be at all easy to do.
Head coach Ruben Amorim is claimed to be a big fan of Baleba. Brighton are not eager to sell the midfielder and would demand a colossal fee.
Baleba’s strengths include his ability to win the ball and drive forward with it, and at 21-years-old he has incredible potential to develop.
The Cameroon midfielder’s approach to the game is a perfect match for Ruben Amorim and his demands from his Manchester United players.
Ruben Amorim called for bravery
Arriving midway through the 2024/25 season was challenging for Ruben Amorim, as he tried to imprint his philosophy into the team.
While previous United managers have preferred to play counter-attacking football and shine in transition, Amorim was clear he wants his players to control the ball, and not be afraid of it.
Speaking in early December, Amorim explained: “You have to understand the game, the moments of the game. We need to have the ball, that is a key point.
“We want to have the ball, we want to dominate some moments of the game, because you know these matches it’s hard to control all the game. We have to be brave and play the game.”
And speaking after the pre-season friendly draw against Leeds in Stockholm in July, Amorim made clear that he felt there was room for improvement in midfield.
He said: “The gaps between our sectors was sometimes too big. We have a lack of pace, especially in the middle of the park and you can feel it is hard to win and bring the ball.”
Carlos Baleba has already explained how he can solve the problem and fit Ruben Amorim’s demands.
Carlos Baleba on his own style
Carlos Baleba spoke to Sky Sports about his own game, discussing how he is not afraid to receive the ball from his defenders and begin building the play.
Baleba used a crucial word to match Amorim’s own desire, talking about ‘bravery’.
The Brighton midfielder said: “You need the courage to come out with the ball in difficult and risky areas. It’s all about the confidence you have in yourself – to want to take the ball in those areas – and playing simple.
“If you play simple in those areas, you can easily play around the back. If you complicate things technically, you can’t do it.
“It’s about having the bravery to show what you’re capable of.”
Manchester United fans who have watched highlight reels of Baleba over the transfer window will have noticed the one unmistakable feature of his game; his ability to drive forward with the ball.
Baleba’s skill at accelerating in possession and breaking tackles helps his team drive up the pitch, and would solve the concern about the lack of pace in midfield and could quickly close any gaps that emerge.
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