The transfer rumor mill is buzzing as Brighton's Fabian Hurzeler publicly urges Carlos Baleba to remain grounded amid intensifying speculation linking the midfielder with Manchester United. Fans and pundits alike sense the January window could see Baleba don the iconic red shirt, despite Brighton's efforts to maintain composure within their camp. With quotes and reactions flooding social media, the move looks increasingly inevitable.

The primary source is a tweet from @UtdXclusive, referencing @MirrorFootball, which reported on Hurzeler's plea to Baleba to stay focused amidst mounting Manchester United rumors. Additional context and fan reactions are drawn from replies under the tweet, expressing belief in a possible January transfer. Official transfer status: Carlos Baleba is currently a Brighton player.
🚨 NEW: Fabian Hurzeler has urged Carlos Baleba to remain grounded despite continuing rumours of a move to Manchester United. #MUFC [@MirrorFootball]
@UtdXclusive
Impact Analysis
Carlos Baleba's imminent move to Manchester United promises to make ripples across multiple fronts. Tactically, Baleba is seen as a perfect fit for Erik ten Hag’s dynamic midfield setup, offering power, ball retention, and youth—traits sorely needed as United looks to rejuvenate its squad. Brighton’s insistence on keeping him may only drive up his price, but sources suggest the club could yield if the offer aligns with their valuation, rumored to be £40M–£60M. For United, Baleba's arrival would signal another strong move under INEOS' stewardship, furthering their intent to rebuild around young, high-ceiling talents. Meanwhile, Brighton find themselves at a crossroads: cashing in could fund further recruitment, while losing yet another midfield gem risks undermining their competitive progress. The media attention and buzz signal a deal that is both highly anticipated and transformative for all parties involved.
Reaction
The fan response has been electrifying across social media. United supporters are adamant the transfer will happen in January, with many expressing confidence that Baleba is set to join for a fee in the £40M–£60M range. Some jest about Brighton's negotiating tactics and player value, while others point out that once a player is unsettled, retaining him is futile—especially with United's historic pull in the transfer market. Brighton fans appear resigned to losing yet another prospect, mirroring past departures. The optimistic mood among United faithful predicts that Baleba will provide the injection of energy and technical quality the team desperately needs. The general consensus across the fanbase is clear—Baleba to United feels not only likely but almost assured by the mood and momentum of ongoing discussions.
Social reactions
baleba for 60M or nothing
Kang Lawak Portable (@da_bloz)
His value has dropped by at least 30% by now
Udit Goenka (@iuditg)
get the 40 million ready we are going hard on January
king walker (@FrancisMen73749)
Prediction
With Hurzeler’s recent comments seemingly a last attempt to maintain locker room stability, the Baleba saga will only intensify. Expect negotiations between United and Brighton to accelerate as January approaches, with INEOS ready to flex their financial muscle. United will likely secure Baleba early in the window to integrate him swiftly into the squad, ensuring minimal disruption. Brighton, adept in the transfer market, could line up a replacement in advance. Should the transfer finalize, expect Baleba to slot immediately into United’s midfield rotation, perhaps even making his debut within days of signing. The football world is bracing for one of the winter window’s marquee moves, as all signs point to an Old Trafford unveiling post-New Year.
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Conclusion
The transfer saga has all the hallmarks of inevitability. Manchester United's determined pursuit signals both trust in Baleba's abilities and recognition of their own midfield deficiencies. Brighton, as ever, face the perennial Premier League dilemma: retain a restless starlet or bank a hefty fee and reinvest. With fan anticipation peaking and media updates coming thick and fast, the move seems not only plausible, but imminent. If finalized, the deal could be the catalyst for a new era in United’s midfield, serving as yet another example of Brighton’s success in talent development and sales. The footballing world awaits official confirmation, fully expecting Baleba to don the red of Manchester United before the close of the January window.
Tiziana Bird
Just do it!
Kang Lawak Portable
baleba for 60M or nothing
Udit Goenka
His value has dropped by at least 30% by now
king walker
get the 40 million ready we are going hard on January
Sanaipei M
He will eventually go to Manchester United though not for 100M
Aaron 777
This manager was smilling n saying he is 100 % staying🤣🤣 guess who is laughing now
UnitedGGMU
January he’s coming to United I reckon
Innocent Mikayi Thembo
We don't want Him
Mr Ray
Allow him to leave
UWT
Brighton can’t keep a player who’s unhappy and underperforming and we are definitely signing a midfielder in January so everything aligns
UWT
January move for Baleba is inevitable
bella
We can sign him