Manchester United have pulled the plug on their pursuit of Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba after the 22-year-old sustained an ankle ligament injury during pre-season preparations. The injury, reported by David Ornstein of The Athletic, occurred in early August 2026 and is expected to sideline the Cameroon international for a number of weeks.
United had been in prolonged discussions over a deal that, at various points, carried a valuation nearing £100 million.
What happened and why United walked away
Baleba picked up the ankle ligament injury while preparing for Brighton’s upcoming 2026-27 campaign. He missed Brighton’s pre-season friendly against Strasbourg, a match Brighton won 4-3 without him.
Brighton believe the injury is not a long-term concern.
