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 told Brighton and Hove Albion how much they plan to bid for Cameroon international midfielder Carlos Baleba.

That’s why United’s interest in Brighton & Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba makes sense. The 21-year-old is an all-action, front-footed midfielder who hoovers up ground for fun. Not only would he add intensity to the heart of the pitch, but his quality in and out of possession offers something United lack.