Man Utd given stern £110m Carlos Baleba transfer verdict as Brighton star given ultimatum

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Former Premier League striker Paul Dickov has given Carlos Baleba some advice on how to justify his hefty £110m price tag , amid interest from Manchester United . The Red Devils were reportedly eyeing the 21-year-old during the summer transfer window , but baulked at the asking price.

Brighton snapped up the Cameroonian starlet in 2023 for a modest £23m. Since then, he's made his international debut and become a key player for the Seagulls, who are currently sitting comfortably in the middle of the Premier League table, just two points behind United.

Baleba was said to be keen on a move to Old Trafford, but a deal never came to fruition. Brighton appear to hold all the cards in this ongoing transfer saga, as the youngster's contract doesn't run out until 2028, with an option for an additional year.

Despite a slower start to this season following his standout performances last term, United are still reportedly interested in the defensive midfielder. However, it's the steep price tag that Dickov can't quite wrap his head around.

The former Scotland international believes Baleba needs to concentrate on his game before contemplating a big-money move, reports the Manchester Evening News .

He said in an interview with Best Betting Bonuses: "I didn't really think he was worth £110million in the summer, really, but he's a wonderful player. He's still a very young boy.

"Sometimes with the speculation and the pressure surrounding him in the summer, it can affect players. You know, the last couple of games, he has been better, but he has struggled this season.

"That could be the pressure that's been put on him. Sometimes the price tag, that talk of going to clubs like United, Chelsea or wherever it may be, it can affect you.

"I think what he's got to do is, first and foremost, concentrate on himself and try to get his form back to somewhere where it was because he was outstanding last season.

"If he can do that, there's going to be a lot of clubs that are going to come back knocking. But I'm not quite too sure about £110 million."

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Given that Casemiro's deal runs until 2026, Baleba might be viewed as a potential long-term successor. Yet with the seasoned Brazilian showing renewed vigour on the field, Amorim may face a challenging decision come next summer.

United are also said to be monitoring Elliot Anderson, who offers similar qualities to Baleba. Once more, should United genuinely pursue Anderson, they would likely need to stump up around £100million for the Nottingham Forest star.

Man United and Brighton have already locked horns this season, with Amorim's side emerging victorious 4-2. Their next encounter is on the final Premier League matchday, which could see Baleba's last outing for Brighton against his potential future club.

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