'Explored conditions': Man United make an early move to sign dream midfield target in January

Manchester United have wasted little time in flexing their muscles as the winter transfer window swings open.

The market officially opened on 1 January and will remain active until 2 February, giving clubs a narrow window to reshape their squads.

Strengthening the midfield has emerged as a clear priority at Old Trafford, with a sweeping overhaul anticipated over the next six to eight months.

According to Sky Sports, Man United have explored the conditions of signing Brighton & Hove Albion star Carlos Baleba in January.

The Red Devils have been admirers of the 21-year-old for some time and even made an approach last summer to gauge Brighton’s stance.

The Seagulls remain determined to keep hold of one of their prized assets until at least the end of the season.

They were previously demanding a fee north of £100 million to sanction his departure and could stick to a similar valuation next July.

Baleba has endured a more difficult 2025–26 campaign, with his performances failing to consistently hit the heights he reached last season.

Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler also previously admitted that the transfer speculation had unsettled the midfielder

Despite his dip in form, it seems United are heavily interested in bringing him to Old Trafford.

The Cameroon international is widely regarded as a top-class prospect with the physicality, intelligence and technical quality to develop into a complete midfielder.

Relentless out of possession and powerful on the ball, Baleba can protect his zones defensively while also carrying play forward with authority.

Should United move for him next summer, Baleba would arrive with two full seasons of Premier League experience already under his belt.

Recent additions such as Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha have reinforced the belief that proven Premier League performers adapt more smoothly to life at Old Trafford.

We do not think that United can reach an agreement with Brighton for Baleba in January but a transfer next summer seems highly likely.

Stats from Fotmob.com

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .