Brighton coach explains Baleba's failure: impact of Manchester United's interest.

According to The Sun: Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeceler believes that Carlos Baleba's slow start to the season is likely related to the unsuccessful summer offers from Manchester United.

The highly-rated Cameroonian midfielder found himself at the center of transfer rumors in the summer when Manchester United made an inquiry.

GettyBaleba, with a terrible start to the season, was substituted at halftime during the match against Tottenham GettyBrighton's manager Hurzeceler acknowledged that his star player may be distracted by transfer talks APHe has recently been left out of the starting lineup against Bournemouth

Offers from the Red Devils dragged on as Brighton set a price of £115 million for him.

Baleba was a key figure in Brighton's successful 2024/25 season, but he is yet to show his former form.

The 21-year-old has not come out in the starting lineup during Brighton's 1-2 defeat to Bournemouth and was substituted at halftime during a recent match against Tottenham.

Hurzeceler previously hinted that Baleba's dip in form may be linked to distractions, but after the latest setback, he became more specific.

“Of course, when a young guy reads that there is interest from Manchester United with huge stakes, it can affect him.”

“This is also part of development - understanding that when you play well, big clubs take notice of you.”

“But he has to keep pushing, stay humble, and focus on developing with Brighton.”

Hurzeceler noted: “I cannot give a precise answer whether it really affected him.”

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“But, of course, he is a young guy, and we need to understand that he is not a machine that just keeps going.”

“We have to take into account his feelings and emotions, and it is our responsibility.”

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Baleba quickly became one of the most notable players after moving to Brighton from Lille in 2023, earning a reputation as one of the best young midfielders in the Premier League.

Last season, he played 40 matches for Brighton, showcasing impressive statistics in interceptions and duels won.

However, this season his form has noticeably dropped, and he has not been able to replicate last year's success.

Brighton is keen to retain their young star player, knowing they could fetch a significant sum from his sale, just as they did with Moises Caicedo.

The Ecuadorian was sold to Chelsea for £115 million two seasons ago, even though Brighton paid only £4.5 million for his transfer.

However, the efforts to keep Baleba and develop him to a world-class level may have ambiguous consequences for the club.

Baleba was not included in the starting lineup against Bournemouth, and his manager notes that he is facing difficulties due to the changes in transfer rumors.

“I think it is normal for a young player when the media creates noise around him.

“It is not easy for this player to cope. So we must give him time and support so he can return to his best form.”

“He is a young player, and we need to consider that they do not always demonstrate the desired stability.

“Everyone is affected by the noise, especially when you are so young.”

Baleba has three years left on his contract, but with ongoing difficulties, Brighton may find it hard to turn down a sales offer next year.