Manchester United have maintained their interest in Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba and are preparing to reactivate a move for the 22-year-old in the summer 2026 transfer window. According to Fabrizio Romano, a verbal agreement on personal terms reached in 2025 remains valid, with Brighton reportedly lowering their valuation from over £100m to a range between £50m and £60m. The development comes as Chelsea exclude Enzo Maresca and Edin Terzic from their search for a successor to the sacked Liam Rosenior, while Sunderland hierarchy publicly back head coach Regis Le Bris despite recent form.
United Midfield Overhaul and Baleba Valuation
The pursuit of Baleba aligns with a broader tactical shift at Old Trafford, where the recruitment department is prioritising high-mobility profiles to replace the outgoing Casemiro. Having joined Brighton from Lille for approximately €27m in 2023, Baleba has progressed into one of the Premier League's most efficient ball-carriers. While Brighton originally held a firm £100m stance when United first approached them in August 2025, reports suggest the South Coast club is now more flexible on the €59m-€70m package. This price adjustment is significant given United's profit and sustainability constraints, following a period of heavy investment under the current sporting structure which has seen the squad's average age drop significantly over the last two windows.
Chelsea Managerial Restrictions and Sunderland Stability
Following the dismissal of Liam Rosenior after five consecutive scoreless defeats, Chelsea's search for a sixth permanent manager since 2022 has already hit roadblocks. Speaking on recent developments, Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Enzo Maresca is "impossible" for the London club, as the Leicester City manager is viewed as the primary candidate to succeed Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. Similarly, Edin Terzic is unavailable due to a verbal commitment to Athletic Bilbao. This leaves interim coach Calum McFarlane in charge for the FA Cup semi-final against Leeds United. Meanwhile, Sunderland have moved to quash rumours surrounding Regis Le Bris. Despite a 5-0 loss to Nottingham Forest, the club hierarchy reportedly intends to retain the coach who secured their promotion in 2025, regardless of whether they achieve European qualification this season.
The summer window appears set to hinge on United's ability to clear squad space for Baleba, while Chelsea must navigate a dwindling pool of elite coaching targets.