Carlos Baleba continues to be named as a transfer target for Manchester United in 2026 despite his drop in form.
In the summer, Manchester United were ready to bid for Carlos Baleba before learning that Brighton were holding out for over £100 million.
But Baleba was identified as a top target and a player suitable to thrive in Ruben Amorim’s system at Old Trafford.
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This season, though, Baleba failed to impress at Old Trafford and his first half of the season has displayed a concerning drop in form.
Baleba has responded to United’s interest and admitted that he struggled to handle the pressure. With the January transfer window right around the corner, Ineos have a decision to make.
Carlos Baleba prediction made for 2026
Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler has defended Baleba from criticism this season, and sporting director Jason Ayto is confident that things will turn around for the 21-year-old midfielder.
“He’s getting stronger and stronger as the season goes on,” Ayto told The Athletic.
“We’re really looking forward to watching him represent his country in the AFCON, and we’re really excited to get him back.
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“He’s a happy, strong, energetic Carlos who’s really good for us. I think he’s going to go from strength to strength in the second half of the season.”
Like Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo and Noussair Mazraoui, Baleba is currently participating in AFCON and will return to Premier League action next month.
Man United’s midfield targets for 2026
United continue to be linked with a move for Baleba in 2026 despite his struggles, and he is just one of 17 midfield targets heading into the new year.
But his poor form has dropped him down United’s shopping list. United fans’ dream signing is Elliot Anderson, with the Nottingham Forest midfielder potentially on the move next summer.
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Adam Wharton is another Premier League star linked with United, and Wharton’s agent’s comments about wanting to play in the Champions League could help the Red Devils depending on where they finish this season.
If United don’t want to wait for the summer, Ruben Neves is being linked with United and could be available next month before his Al-Hilal contract expires. Former Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher is another opportunity that could be explored by Ineos in January.
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