Manchester United ‘can afford’ top midfield target Carlos Baleba this summer and ‘could revive a deal’ for the Brighton star despite reports claiming they’ve walked away from his possible transfer. The Red Devils have held talks over a move for Baleba via intermediaries and then directly with Brighton this month to sound them out over a deal,

Brighton are keen to keep hold of Baleba, who is under contract until 2028 with the option of a further 12 months, and warned United it would take a fee around the £115 million ($156 million) Chelsea paid to sign Moisés Caicedo two years ago to get a deal for Baleba over the line.

Manchester United have been chasing Carlos Baleba, but so far, they have not made any progress. Looking to strengthen their midfield, the Red Devils had placed Carlos Baleba at the top of their list.

Manchester United have baulked at Carlos Baleba’s price-tag and have identified Crystal Palace star Carlos Baleba as a potential alternative.

Manchester United's interest in Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba has left former team-mates Rio Ferdinand and Roy Keane at odds on whether they should pursue a transfer

Brighton boss Fabian Hürzeler has said he doesn't "feel fear" about losing his key players this transfer window amid interest for midfielder Carlos Baleba

Fabrizio Romano has revealed Manchester United still intend to sign Carlos Baleba despite Brighton making a deal this summer impossible, and reports have detailed the club's midfield masterplan with a new face expected to arrive over the next two weeks.