Media reports suggest Manchester City have joined cross-town rivals Manchester United in the race for Cameroonian midfielder Carlos Baloïta—though any suitor must meet Brighton’s sky-high valuation to sign him.
Sources reveal Brighton have set a non-negotiable €120 million price tag on Baloïta. Reports indicate the midfielder has caught the eye of both United and City, with managers from both clubs rating him highly.
However, United are yet to make contact with Brighton over Baloïta. Having already agreed a deal for Sesko (worth €85 million including add-ons), sealing that transfer would make a move for Baloïta extremely tough. That said, if they can sell fringe players like Alejandro Garnacho, a midfield signing could still be possible.
Sources add that Baloïta is happy to stay at Brighton this summer, with a transfer more likely to happen in a year’s time. He is now a key player under Brighton boss Simon Hütter, featuring 34 times in the Premier League last season with 3 goals and 1 assist.
Notably, Brighton signed Baloïta from Lille for €30 million in 2023; if his future transfer fee exceeds that amount, Lille will receive a 20% profit share.
