Brighton is seeking €100 million.
On Wednesday evening, news broke that Manchester United had made an initial inquiry to Brighton about the availability of Carlos Baleba. The club has already strengthened its attacking lineup this summer with the anticipated signing of Benjamin Sesko, alongside previous additions Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo. United’s next goal is to acquire a dynamic central midfielder, with Baleba emerging as their primary target. Having joined Brighton from Lille for €27 million in 2023, the 21-year-old has quickly gained recognition as one of the Premier League’s most promising midfielders, known for his exceptional ball-winning skills.
Ruben Amorim’s preferred 3-4-2-1 formation emphasizes the central midfielders’ roles in covering extensive ground and applying intense pressure. Baleba’s athleticism aligns perfectly with these expectations. United’s net expenditure this summer is projected to surpass €175 million once Sesko’s transfer is finalized, forcing the club to consider selling a player before acquiring another high-cost signing—Alejandro Garnacho could be pivotal, with Chelsea reportedly interested in him. However, Brighton is reluctant to part with Baleba and is demanding approximately €100 million for their star player, a figure that could be a stumbling block for United. As a result, we’ve identified four potential alternatives for the Brighton midfielder, each valued under €30 million according to Transfermarkt—though actual transfer fees may be higher than these market values.
Of the four players highlighted, Lamine Camara is likely to command the highest transfer fee, as Monaco is hesitant to let him go this summer. The Ligue 1 club will participate in the Champions League next season and has bolstered its squad with significant signings like Paul Pogba and Ansu Fati. Although Camara plays primarily in a double-pivot role with Denis Zakaria, he’s more attack-oriented than Baleba. Aged 21, he excels at progressing the ball in a box-to-box role and is effective in possession, using his body to shield the ball while efficiently covering large areas of the pitch. Camara’s defensive capabilities may be underrated, making him a compelling option under Amorim’s guidance.
Pape Gueye joined Villarreal last summer from Marseille on a free transfer, a deal that now looks like a bargain. After gaining LaLiga experience during a loan at Sevilla, Gueye shone at Villarreal, helping them secure Champions League qualification. While relatively unknown in England, he could thrive in Amorim’s system, bolstering the midfield with his athleticism and physical presence. Gueye’s passing improved considerably at Villarreal, making him well-suited for the Premier League; he showcased his abilities impressively during a pre-season victory over Arsenal.
Lucien Agoumé is currently valued at €8 million on Transfermarkt, though Sevilla would likely require a significantly higher fee for his release. The 23-year-old, who recently joined Sevilla from Inter Milan, is known for his defensive skills, including interceptions and tackling. Sevilla currently holds partial ownership of Agoumé and recently increased their stake, with Transfermarkt indicating that their valuation exceeds €25 million. He has drawn comparisons to Moises Caicedo and could be a hidden gem in the market.
Javi Guerra was previously linked with a move to Old Trafford this summer and offers a more technically skilled alternative than the other three options. At just 22, Guerra has already made over 80 first-team appearances for Valencia, demonstrating proficiency in advancing play from deep with his long strides. Although he is more attack-minded than Baleba, Guerra possesses strength and exceptional pressing abilities. With only two years remaining on his contract, Valencia faces a difficult situation, but Guerra is expected to stay loyal to his boyhood club.
