Brighton & Hove Albion manager Fabian Hurzeler has expressed strong confidence that midfielder Carlos Baleba will remain at the club, despite significant interest from Manchester United. Hurzeler stated he is "very, very confident" that Baleba will stay with the Seagulls.

Manchester United's interest in the 21-year-old Cameroonian midfielder is well-documented, with manager Ruben Amorim keen to bolster his midfield options. Baleba has emerged as a primary target for United, who are looking to strengthen their midfield after investing heavily in their forward line.

However, Brighton are reluctant to sell Baleba, and Hurzeler's recent comments suggest the club is doing everything possible to keep him. Brighton reportedly value Baleba at around £100 million. The Seagulls are in a strong negotiating position, having sold Moises Caicedo to Chelsea for a substantial fee in 2023. They can use that sale as a precedent for Baleba.

Hurzeler's confidence is buoyed by Baleba's apparent contentment at Brighton. He noted that Baleba "seems to be in a very good place, enjoying it with his teammates". This suggests that Baleba is not pushing for a move, which strengthens Brighton's position.

Despite Hurzeler's confidence, Manchester United have not completely given up on signing Baleba. However, senior sources suggest that a deal this summer is "unlikely". United are considering alternative midfield targets, including Sporting Lisbon's Morten Hjulmand, who previously played under Amorim. Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton and Atalanta's Ederson are also potential options. Hjulmand would be a cheaper alternative.

One factor that could influence Manchester United's pursuit of Baleba is their ability to offload players. Jadon Sancho has been linked with a move away from the club, and his departure would free up funds and wages that could be used to finance a deal for Baleba. Roma has made a loan offer for Sancho.

Manchester United may delay their move for Baleba until next year. Baleba is under contract with Brighton until 2028, with an option for another year. This gives Brighton significant leverage in any negotiations.

Baleba's absence from the latter stages of Brighton's pre-season preparations due to a knee injury raised some concerns, but he is back in contention for their Premier League opener against Fulham. Hurzeler confirmed that Baleba is an option to start.