Leave our Baleba! Heartbreak for Man United fans as CARL-OUS Brighton slam door shut on dream transfer
Manchester United fans have been left devastated after Brighton made it crystal clear that they have no intention of selling their talented midfielder Carlos Baleba this summer.
The Seagulls slammed the door shut on the Red Devils' pursuit of the Cameroonian star, signaling that Baleba will stay put at Brighton for at least another season.
According to reports from The Athletic and Fabrizio Romano, Manchester United are not planning to proceed with their move for Baleba after Brighton set an exorbitant price tag comparable to the £115 million Chelsea paid for Moises Caicedo, which is way beyond what United are willing to pay in the current market.
Despite the personal terms reportedly not being an issue and Baleba’s apparent interest in a move to Old Trafford, Brighton’s stance which corroborates the coach's has left United’s hopes dashed.
The dialogue between clubs has reportedly been respectful, and United acknowledge Baleba’s youth and ongoing development, with the midfielder having only two Premier League seasons under his belt.
This means the Red Devils may have to look elsewhere or wait for another window to land their top midfield target.
Fan Reactions: "It Had to Be Ornstein"
Manchester United fans have taken to social media expressing their heartbreak and frustration, imploring the club to keep trying and plan for next summer.
One fan lamented, "It had to be Ornstein with the sad news here. If we can somehow start negotiations in preparation for next season that will be awesome. Strike an agreement with him and start negotiating with Brighton for a move next summer."
Another added, "At least the club tried. I don't see anything more than £90M for him. Now the pressure is on him, he has to perform really well. If not, his value goes lower."
Some supporters speculated on contract strategies, saying, "Is this where Baleba signs a contract extension with Brighton with a higher wage but with a release clause that becomes active next summer..?"
Ready to train on matchday minus one! 👊 pic.twitter.com/pz798cmI8b
— Brighton & Hove Albion (@OfficialBHAFC) August 15, 2025
The frustration was palpable, with one fan bluntly stating, "Ineos are such pussy man! These mofo ain’t serious. We need Baleba now! Next summer he'll have other big European clubs in for him."
The saga shows the challenge Manchester United face in strengthening their midfield amidst a tough Premier League transfer market and the firm resistance from Brighton’s hierarchy to part with one of their brightest talents this summer.
For now, United must regroup and consider their next moves while fans cling to hope for a future Baleba reunion at Old Trafford.