Report: Tottenham now looking to hijack Man Utd move to sign ‘exceptional’ Premier League star
Tottenham Hotspur have set their sights on Brighton & Hove Albion’s dynamic midfielder Carlos Baleba as they look to rebuild following a disastrous Premier League campaign.
The North London club’s interest in the 20-year-old Cameroonian comes as part of their broader strategy to revitalize a squad that dramatically underperformed last season, culminating in their worst top-flight finish in decades.
The seismic shift at Spurs this summer has seen Thomas Frank take the reins after Ange Postecoglou’s departure, despite the Australian delivering the club’s first major European trophy in nearly two decades with Europa League success.
Frank, the architect of Brentford’s impressive Premier League establishment, has already begun reshaping the squad with the additions of Mohammed Kudus, João Palhinha (on loan), and Japanese defender Kota Takai.
However, it’s in midfield where Spurs appear most determined to strengthen, particularly after James Maddison’s untimely preseason injury.
Baleba has emerged as one of the most exciting young talents in English football since his £23 million move from Lille in 2023.
The powerful yet technically gifted midfielder has developed into a complete modern player under Roberto De Zerbi’s tutelage at Brighton, combining destructive defensive work with progressive passing and driving runs from deep.
His performances last season – where he averaged 2.3 tackles and 1.5 key passes per game while completing 88% of his passes – have drawn comparisons to a young Yaya Touré.
Manchester United’s concrete interest adds another layer of complexity to any potential deal. The Red Devils, despite their own struggles last term, have demonstrated their pulling power with high-profile signings this summer and could offer European football alongside Spurs.
However, Tottenham hold a crucial advantage with Champions League qualification secured through their Europa League triumph – a factor that could prove decisive in any transfer battle.
Brighton’s renowned negotiating team, led by Tony Bloom, have made their position clear: they have no intention of selling one of their crown jewels this summer.
The Seagulls’ model revolves around identifying and developing young talent before selling at premium prices, but their stance suggests they value Baleba’s continued development at the Amex above immediate financial gain.
This resistance, combined with Baleba’s contract running until 2028, means any suitor would need to table an astronomical offer to force Brighton’s hand.
For Tottenham, Baleba represents exactly the type of signing that could help Thomas Frank implement his high-energy, tactically flexible approach.
His ability to play as both a defensive shield and box-to-box runner would provide cover for the injury-prone Rodrigo Bentancur while offering competition for Yves Bissouma and Pape Matar Sarr.
The youngster’s physical attributes – standing 6’1″ with explosive acceleration – make him ideally suited to the demands of Premier League football.
As Spurs continue their squad overhaul, the pursuit of Baleba signals their ambition to build around young, technically proficient players who can grow with the project.
While Brighton’s reluctance to sell presents a significant obstacle, Tottenham’s newfound Champions League status and Frank’s reputation for developing young talent could prove persuasive factors if they decide to formalize their interest with a concrete bid.
The coming weeks will reveal whether Spurs can pull off what would be a major coup, or if Brighton’s resolve holds firm in keeping their prized asset on the south coast for at least another season.
One thing is certain: Carlos Baleba’s rapid rise shows no signs of slowing down, whether that progression continues at Brighton or takes him to one of England’s traditional giants.