Per The Athletic, United have pulled the plug on their move for Baleba this summer. The club held talks with the Seagulls over a potential move at Ruben Amorim’s behest but have been priced out of a deal, as Brighton seek a fee equivalent to the £115 million ($156m) which saw them sell Moises Caicedo to Chelsea.
United are not willing to meet Brighton’s asking price, nor are the south-coast club minded to sell, and that has led to an impasse in negotiations. The report states that the deal, as a result, is unlikely to proceed, despite Baleba’s own willingness to make the move.
The midfielder’s personal terms would not have presented an issue for United and Baleba is said to be willing to keep pushing, although he has not indicated that he is desperate to leave. Brighton have already sold Joao Pedro, Simon Adingra, and Pervis Estupinan this summer and would prefer not to lose another first-team star.
United are likely to keep tabs on Baleba throughout the season. Brighton kick off their campaign against Fulham this weekend.
