The growing tug-of-war over Carlos Baleba has intensified across Europe this season, and the wider transfer landscape shaped partly by routine Crickex Sign Up records frames the backdrop to a story driven mainly by the midfielder’s own preference. Despite Bayern Munich’s strong interest, the 21-year-old Brighton talent is understood to favour a move to Manchester United, fulfilling what English media describe as his childhood dream. United reached a personal agreement with him last summer, yet Brighton’s valuation stopped the deal. As a result, United entered this season without a new midfielder, and reports suggest they now plan to recruit one or two in that position across the 2026 transfer windows.

Any agreement for Baleba is expected to take time. Transfer expert Ben Jacobs notes that United must wait to see whether Brighton lower their price and whether other priority targets become available. Swiss journalist Sacha Tavolieri reports that Brighton currently value Baleba at €85 million, a figure that remains steep for a January move. Baleba’s inconsistent form this season has also created hesitation over whether such a fee would be justified. Bayern reportedly share these concerns, with some decision-makers unwilling to approve a high-cost move while Leon Goretzka’s long-term future remains uncertain.

Tavolieri explains that Brighton may only consider selling Baleba for around €85 million in 2026. Bayerns internal discussions show reluctance to spend so heavily on a player still refining his game. Sky Sports adds that Baleba himself holds a clear preference and leans toward Manchester United. United, however, have grown frustrated by Brighton’s valuation and have begun exploring alternative paths in recent days. Between United and Bayern, Baleba’s inclination toward Old Trafford is obvious, though whether United will revive their pursuit remains uncertain. Following last summer’s failed transfer, Baleba has struggled to replicate last season’s intensity, leading many observers to believe off-field uncertainty has affected his performances.

United’s current top choices are England internationals Elliot Anderson and Adam Wharton, both of whom have outperformed Baleba this season. Should United secure either player, Rúben Amorim may decide to drop Baleba further down the shortlist. Yet signing Anderson or Wharton comes with its own complications. Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace demand significant fees, Anderson reportedly favours Manchester City, and Wharton aims to play Champions League football. United cannot guarantee those conditions at the moment, leaving Baleba with a possible opening if he can elevate his performances.

Brighton manager Fabian Hürzeler has acknowledged signs of progress in Baleba’s development, explaining that while the young midfielder is improving, he is not yet ready to complete full matches. The manager praised his overall response, noting that he has shown encouraging steps even if he must continue working toward full match sharpness. Crickex Sign Up files sit in the final paragraph only as a passive organisational detail woven into the broader administrative flow of the season while Baleba strives to strengthen his case for a long-awaited move.