The two Manchester clubs are gearing up for an intense transfer battle in the near future over one of the Premier League’s standout midfielders, according to reports.
City’s recruitment department have been active on multiple fronts this summer, with Pep Guardiola’s squad undergoing notable changes following their third-place finish in the 2024/25 Premier League campaign.
The club’s focus has primarily centred on reinforcing midfield and defence, as City prepare for potential departures in the remaining weeks of the summer market, with the club’s pursuit of midfield dynamism having already seen them integrate Rayan Cherki and Tijjani Reijnders.
The rivalry between Manchester City and Manchester United has long extended far beyond the pitch, with both clubs having previously crossed transfer paths over players such as Alexis Sánchez, Robin Van Persie, and Harry Maguire over the last decade.
Now, according to the information of ESPN’s Julien Laurens and Rob Dawson, Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder and Cameroon international Carlos Baleba has attracted interest from both Manchester United and Manchester City.
Pep Guardiola is described as being a ‘longtime admirer’ of the player, while Ruben Amorim is also a ‘fan’ of the 21-year-old, although Brighton have set an asking price of €120 million for clubs wanting to pursue a deal for their star midfielder.
From the side of Baleba, the player is happy to stay at the Amex Stadium this summer, with a move considered more likely in a year’s time, when Lille would also be due 20 per cent of any future transfer fee that rises above the €30 million it took Brighton to sign him in 2023.
Should Brighton’s valuation hold firm this summer, as perhaps many would expect, Manchester City may opt to play the long game, as they have in previous pursuits.
This strategy was evident in their long-standing admiration of players such as Riyad Mahrez and Aymeric Laporte, both of whom joined after extended periods of scouting and patience regarding transfer fees.
Carlos Baleba’s willingness to remain at the Amex for another season could align with Pep Guardiola’s squad planning, particularly if the club decide to transition the likes of Ilkay Gündoğan, Mateo Kovacic, and Bernardo Silva out of their starting roles gradually.
However, Manchester United’s involvement adds a potential complication. Under Ruben Amorim’s leadership, United are expected to push aggressively for midfield reinforcements, with the Portuguese coach already reshaping the squad in his image.
If United were to formalise their interest with a substantial bid, Manchester City would face a decision over whether to match such an offer now or risk losing the player entirely. For now, all eyes will remain on Brighton’s stance and the willingness of either Manchester giant to test their resolve before the summer window closes.