'Super midfielder' speaks out about the deal to join MU

Nevertheless, the 21-year-old player confirms that this has not harmed his playing form, but it has brought him considerable mental stress.

Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba recently admitted that the transfer rumors involving Manchester United have added a lot of pressure on him since the start of the 2025-26 season.

In a statement to the media after the 0-2 loss to Liverpool, Baleba shared: “I don't think it has negatively impacted me, but I have felt a lot of pressure. At the beginning of this season, I wanted to deliver performances like last season. I try to work hard every day to regain my form. Am I putting too much pressure on myself? Yes, I think so, but I see it as a positive thing. It’s good for me. Now I have to get through this slightly stressful period, come back, and keep working hard.”

This season, Baleba has had some inconsistent matches, being substituted 14 times. Brighton fans have also questioned whether failing to move to the Red Devils in the summer transfer window has impacted his form. However, the Cameroonian midfielder continues to show fighting spirit and determination to improve every day.

Notably, Baleba will be absent in the upcoming period as he is called up to represent Cameroon at the Africa Cup of Nations, a tournament lasting until January 18. This poses a major challenge for Brighton, who must rotate their midfield players.

As for MU, the club has the opportunity to strengthen their midfield in January. Baleba is regarded as a dynamic player with good mobility who can add stamina when out of possession, surpassing even Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro. However, the Cameroonian midfielder is not yet strong in passing and building attacks from his own half, making it difficult for him to fully solve MU’s ball control issues.

With competitors for Champions League spots like Chelsea, Liverpool, and Newcastle United showing inconsistent form, MU could consider signing Baleba to inject new energy into their midfield. If the deal succeeds, it would be a strategic move bringing the Red Devils closer to their goal of finishing in the Premier League top 4 this season.