Baleba no longer an option as Man United finalise January midfielder target

Manchester United are adjusting their midfield recruitment plans as they place growing emphasis on Lille’s teenage sensation Ayyoub Bouaddi, while stepping back from a potential move for Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba due to financial concerns. The shift reflects a more calculated approach as the club looks to balance long-term planning with transfer market realities.

Bouaddi has quickly emerged as one of the most exciting young midfielders in Europe. At just 18 years old, the Lille prospect has impressed scouts with his composure, defensive awareness and ability to read the game at a level far beyond his age. Manchester United see him as a strategic investment for the future, particularly as they prepare for a broader squad rebuild over the next few seasons. His ball-winning ability, positional discipline and comfort in possession have made him a standout performer in Ligue 1, drawing comparisons to some of the league’s finest midfield talents.

However, United are far from alone in the race. Paris Saint-Germain are believed to be pushing hard for Bouaddi’s signature, while Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool are also keeping close tabs on his situation. Lille, fully aware of the growing demand, have reportedly set an asking price of around €60 million. While this figure is significant for a teenager, United view it as a more reasonable long-term investment compared to other options currently on the market.

In contrast, the club have decided to cool their interest in Carlos Baleba. The Brighton midfielder has been admired at Old Trafford for some time, but negotiations have stalled due to the Premier League club’s valuation. Brighton are understood to be demanding close to £100 million, a figure Manchester United consider excessive. Despite Baleba’s obvious physical qualities and Premier League experience, United are unwilling to commit such a large sum, especially when alternative targets with greater resale potential are available.

There is still a possibility United could revisit talks if Brighton lower their demands to a more realistic level, reportedly around £70 million. For now, though, Baleba has moved down the priority list as the club reassesses its spending strategy.

By focusing on Bouaddi and stepping away from an inflated deal for Baleba, Manchester United are signaling a clearer transfer philosophy. Rather than overpaying in a competitive market, the club appear determined to secure younger talents who can grow into key roles over time. As the winter window approaches, Bouaddi’s future could become one of the most closely watched transfer stories involving United and Europe’s elite clubs.