Carlos Baleba: Manchester United face competition for £104m Brighton star 'from Premier League rival' | OneFootball

Ruben Amorim is a big fan of the midfielder but securing the signature will not be easy

Manchester United could face stiff competition from Man City for £104million-rated Carlos Baleba.

Reports claim that United have made contact with Brighton through intermediaries to register their interest in Baleba, who was signed for £23.2m back in 2023.

But United are not the only admirers of the Cameroon international, with cross-city rivals City also long-time fans.

ESPN have confirmed Pep Guardiola's interest in Baleba, though no word on if City would look to match any United bid this summer.

United are looking for an upgrade on the inconsistent Casemiro and injury-prone Mason Mount, while City have already spent around £50m on midfielder Tijjani Reijnders this summer, having spent a similar sum on Nico González in January.

The report adds that a Brighton exit for Baleba is more likely to come next summer than during this window. The player is not looking to push for a move and is happy to remain at the Amex Stadium.

Baleba is the latest Brighton player to attract significant interest from Premier League rivals.

Chelsea have spent a combined £235million on Moises Caicedo, Marc Cucurella and, most recently, Joao Pedro.

Arsenal spent around £50m on Ben White, Alexis Mac Allister moved to Liverpool after his £35m release clause was triggered, and Tottenham snapped by Yves Bissouma for £25m.