Transfer Standoff Develops at Amex Stadium

Manchester United have officially halted their pursuit of Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba after the Seagulls' unwavering refusal to negotiate.

Baleba has become integral to Brighton's midfield setup

Key Developments:

• Brighton rejected multiple informal inquiries about the 21-year-old
• Manager Fabian Hurzeler tripled down: "Very, very, very confident he stays"
• United's recruitment team pivoting to alternative targets

Strategic Shift at Old Trafford

With the September 1 deadline approaching, United's football director John Murtough has:

1. Initiated talks with Sporting CP for captain Morten Hjulmand (26)
2. Conducted financial analysis of potential deals
3. Reviewed existing squad depth after £200m summer spending

Tactical Implications

Brighton's resolve appears justified given:

• Baleba's 87% pass accuracy in final third last season
• Recent tactical evolution under Hurzeler
• Looming matches vs Arsenal, Chelsea, and Man City

United's revised midfield shortlist now includes:

• Morten Hjulmand (Sporting CP)
• João Neves (Benfica)
• Boubacar Kamara (Aston Villa)

Financial Realities

With Financial Fair Play constraints and no major sales completed:

• Hjulmand's €40m release clause presents complications
• Potential player-plus-cash deals being explored
• Academy prospects like Kobbie Mainoo could see increased roles

What's Next?

• Brighton vs Fulham (Saturday 17:30 BST)
• United's season opener vs Arsenal (Sunday 16:30 BST)
• Transfer window closes September 1 at 23:00 BST