Carlos Baleba response to Man Utd links revealed as £100m transfer saga takes fresh twist

Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler insists he is “very, very, very confident" that Carlos Baleba will finish the summer still at the Amex despite the noise surrounding a move to Manchester United - who may put their move on hold for now.

The Seagulls are looking to retain their top talent and the Cameroon midfielder has emerged as one of their leading lights. He's flourished since his move from Lille. Brighton have continued to unearth unknown quantities with Baleba the latest.

Those in Manchester, after spending £200million on their frontline, are now looking to bolster their midfield. The finances of the deal could yet prove beyond them with Brighton looking for around £100m before they consider letting Baleba leave the club.

United are prepared to delay a move for Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba until next year due to the difficulties involved, but the MEN claims that the 21-year-old would keen on making the move to Old Trafford.

Hurzeler is heading into his second season in charge and has had Baleba as part of his pre-season preparations. Despite talk of a move away the manager insists he's seen no change in the player's demeanour and believes he's committed to the cause. He said: "I didn't see any change, he only changed his hair! He is enjoying being a Brighton player."

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Already this summer Brighton have sold Joao Pedro, who left for Chelsea in a deal worth £60m, which has lessened their need to part with their top talent. The Seagulls have previously been willing to let their star men go, but only once they've landed huge profits.

Moises Caicedo previously left for Chelsea in a then British record deal. But their CEO Paul Barber maintains interest in their top players in nothing new, but he admits the footballing landscape "isn't always predictable."

He said: "There's always going to be interest in our players. Manchester United have not been in touch with me. Speculation is speculation. Carlos is a fantastic talent. We hope he'll be here for years to come - but its subject to the dynamics of the football world, which isn't always predictable."

United could turn their attention to Sporting Lisbon star Morten Hjulmand if they feel as though they Baleba is out of reach and they need reinforcements. The Dane would be available for £50m, which is notably less than his £68m release clause. The Portuguese side would be willing to accept a lower fee if the necessary add-ons were met, according to reports.

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