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 are prepared to look elsewhere to strengthen their midfield.

The Seagulls have valued him at a whopping £100m ($135m) mainly to block offers from the potential suitors.