Carlos Baleba speaks out on Man Utd transfer rumours after Sir Jim Ratcliffe's £74m boost

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Carlos Baleba has spoken out about claims that transfer speculation linking him with Manchester United has affected his performances this season. The Brighton midfielder was reportedly the subject of a £100million bid from Old Trafford during the summer window, following his impressive displays for Fabian Hurzeler's team in 2024/25.

United ultimately didn't pursue the deal and Baleba remained at the Amex Stadium. Since the transfer window closed, the Cameroon international has featured in 15 matches for the Seagulls.

Whilst Baleba has been a regular fixture in Brighton's starting XI, he hasn't quite reached the heights of his previous form this term. This has prompted some observers, including Brighton fans, to wonder whether the transfer rumours have had a knock-on effect on his displays in a Seagulls jersey this season.

When quizzed about this theory, Baleba told Sky Sports on Sunday: "I don't think it affected me negatively, but I had a lot of pressure on me. When I started this season, I wanted to show the same performances as last season.

"Every day I try to work hard and get back to my level. Did I put too much pressure on myself? Yes, I think so, but I think it's good. It's good for me, because now I have to get through this slightly stressful period, get back on the horse and continue working hard."

Despite a season of fluctuating form, Baleba is once again rumoured to be on United's radar for a January transfer as they aim to bolster their midfield. The Reds were keen to strengthen this area during the summer but failed to do so, leaving head coach Ruben Amorim with the same options.

Brighton, who had previously valued Baleba at £100m and were unwilling to sell, are now reportedly more open to a potential departure . Sky Sports ' Sacha Tavolieri suggested earlier this month that the club might entertain offers in the region of €85m (£74.3m).

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In a further boost for United and Amorim, it's understood that Baleba would prefer a move to Old Trafford over Bayern Munich . The German champions are also said to be considering a bid for the Cameroonian midfielder amidst doubts over Leon Goretzka's future.

Alongside Baleba, Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton is another player on United's wish list, although several Premier League competitors are also keeping tabs on the former Blackburn Rovers midfielder. Elliot Anderson has also been identified as a potential target for Amorim's side, however, Nottingham Forest are expected to rebuff any attempts to sign the England international in January.

If United don't manage to secure the signatures of one or two midfielders in the coming month, it could affect Kobbie Mainoo's chances of a January departure. The 20-year-old is eager for more playing time and is considering leaving United, with Napoli showing interest. However, the Reds are not keen on selling and would rather arrange a loan deal.

United's next match sees them hosting Bournemouth on Monday. A victory over the Cherries at Old Trafford will see the Reds climb to fifth place in the Premier League table.