Brighton Midfielder Carlos Baleba Distracted by Premier League Giants Manchester United

Brighton manager Fabian Hürzeler admitted Carlos Baleba’s form has been affected by transfer speculation linking him with a £115 million move to Premier League rivals Manchester United.

The 20-year-old midfielder, a standout performer for Brighton last season, has endured a difficult start to the current campaign.

The Cameroonian international was dropped from the starting line-up in the 2-1 defeat to Bournemouth in Match week 2.

And substituted at half-time against Tottenham Hotspur in Match week 3 after struggling in the opening 45 minutes.

Hürzeler explained he has been distracted by rumours surrounding his future, particularly suggestions of a record-breaking offer from Manchester United.

“For sure, when a young boy reads there is interest from Manchester United with a big, big offer, it might affect him deep, deep down,” the Brighton boss said in an interview with talkSPORT.

Baleba arrived at Brighton with high expectations from Lille in 2023. He is now under pressure to rediscover his form and focus in the Premier League amid the ongoing speculation.