Manchester United have stepped up their pursuit of Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba with a major transfer offer, putting the Premier League club closer to a deal for one of its long-standing midfield targets.

United have submitted an offer worth around €70 million, with additional performance-related bonuses that could take the overall package higher. The latest reporting indicates that negotiations between the two clubs are continuing, but Brighton have not yet formally accepted the proposal.

The development has quickly become one of the biggest Premier League transfer stories of the day, with United looking to add more power and defensive ability to their midfield before the new season gets underway.

United Push Ahead With Baleba Deal

According to reporting from David Ornstein, Manchester United are closing in on an agreement with Brighton for the 22-year-old midfielder.

United’s proposal is understood to be around £60 million up front plus £5 million in potential add-ons. That is broadly consistent with reports putting the offer at more than €70 million before additional bonuses. The offer remains below Brighton’s reported valuation, meaning negotiations are still required before the transfer can be completed.

The two clubs are reportedly holding amicable discussions as they work toward finding common ground on the final fee.

That means Baleba should not yet be described as a Manchester United player. The transfer remains subject to an agreement between the clubs and the completion of the required steps.

Baleba Has Already Agreed Personal Terms

One of the reasons the transfer is attracting so much attention is that the player side of the move is reportedly much further along.

Baleba has agreed personal terms with Manchester United, according to multiple reports, and has remained keen on joining the club after United previously pursued him.

That gives United a significant advantage as negotiations with Brighton continue.

The midfielder has reportedly wanted the move for an extended period, making the latest bid the most serious development yet in a transfer story that has followed him and United for more than a year.

Why Manchester United Want Baleba

United’s interest in Baleba is closely connected to the club’s need for greater athleticism and defensive strength in the middle of the field.

The Cameroon international is capable of playing in a deeper midfield role and is known for his physical presence, mobility and ability to cover ground. United see those qualities as valuable as they continue rebuilding their squad.

The club has already invested heavily in midfield this summer, with Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos among the additions reported by The Guardian. Baleba would provide another option for a position United have been trying to strengthen.

Brighton’s Asking Price Has Changed

The current negotiations are particularly notable because Brighton’s valuation of Baleba has reportedly fallen considerably from previous expectations.

United were interested in the midfielder before, but Brighton had previously placed a much higher price on the player. Reports have indicated that the club once valued him at around £100 million or more.

The current proposal of approximately £65 million represents a substantially different financial picture, although Brighton are still seeking a deal that reflects Baleba’s value.

Baleba’s recent form has also influenced the situation. His previous season was less impressive than his breakout campaign, contributing to a lower valuation and giving United an opportunity to pursue him for a more manageable fee.

Baleba’s Injury Adds Another Consideration

Baleba is also recovering from an ankle injury, another factor that could be relevant as the transfer moves toward its final stages.

Reports indicate that the injury is not expected to derail the deal, although it could affect his immediate availability if United complete the transfer.

A medical examination would therefore remain an important step before the move could be finalized.

What Happens Next

The immediate focus is on negotiations between Manchester United and Brighton.

United are expected to continue working toward an agreement after submitting their latest proposal. Brighton’s willingness to negotiate has raised confidence that a deal could eventually be reached, but the clubs still need to settle the final financial terms.

For United supporters, the latest development represents a significant step forward in a transfer that has been discussed for some time.

For now, though, Baleba remains a Brighton player. Until the clubs reach a formal agreement and the remaining transfer procedures are completed, reports of a completed Manchester United move should be treated as premature.

A Major Midfield Move for Manchester United

If United complete the deal, Baleba would become another major piece of the club’s midfield rebuild.

The combination of his age, physical profile and experience in the Premier League makes the move particularly interesting for United. At 22, Baleba would also have considerable room to develop while already being familiar with the demands of English soccer.

The size of the latest offer shows that Manchester United are serious about getting the deal across the line.

The next major development will come when Brighton respond to United’s proposal and the two clubs determine whether they can agree on a final fee.