Paul Scholes may have voiced his concern about Manchester United chasing Carlos Baleba, but a new report suggests that Tottenham Hotspur are lining up a long-term move for the Brighton midfielder in 2026. Despite the criticism, Spurs believe Baleba could become a key part of Thomas Frank’s future squad, and they are prepared to act if an opportunity opens.
Baleba was one of Manchester United’s highest-priority targets in the summer of 2025. United made multiple enquiries, but Brighton refused to entertain any approach that did not meet their staggering valuation of more than £100 million.
The midfielder, still only 21 years old, is tied down at the club until 2028, with the option for an extra year. His form this season has been inconsistent, and he has struggled to hit the level many expected after such heavy interest.
Even so, he remains an important figure in Brighton’s midfield, starting 11 league matches already and continuing to develop at a club known for polishing young talent.
United’s interest in Baleba has not disappeared, but the mood around the potential deal has changed. Scholes recently commented that the youngster is not ready for a club of Manchester United’s size and expectations.
He compared him to Moises Caicedo, suggesting that while Baleba has promise, he is still far from becoming the kind of midfielder who can instantly transform United’s midfield. Scholes questioned whether Baleba fits what United truly need at the moment, and his doubts echo the feeling shared by others in the club.
At the same time, United’s focus has shifted to other midfielders. TEAMtalk reports that Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson has become their preferred option for January, while Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes is pushing for a move to Old Trafford.
Talks are already under way, suggesting that United want a more immediate solution rather than a long-term project with a huge price tag.
This shift has opened the door slightly for Tottenham. According to CaughtOffside, Spurs are closely following Baleba’s situation and believe there might be a moment to step in if United choose other targets.
A source claimed Tottenham are keeping an eye on developments, convinced they might be able to make progress if Brighton show any willingness to negotiate. It seems that Spurs co-sporting directors Fabio Paratici and Johan Lange also admire Baleba and see him as a long-term investment for the heart of the midfield.
Thomas Frank currently has several options in the center of the pitch Joao Palhinha, Yves Bissouma, Lucas Bergvall, Archie Gray, Pape Matar Sarr, and Rodrigo Bentancur.
But Spurs want to build a squad with strong depth as they grow under Frank’s leadership. Adding Baleba to that mix would give the manager another young, powerful, hardworking midfielder who fits the energetic, structured style he prefers.
United, however, still have Baleba on their list. Club officials know his potential, but they are unwilling to pay anything close to what Brighton are demanding. Reports say United were not particularly impressed with his performance at Old Trafford this season.
They feel he is still learning the game and remains far from reaching the level his current valuation suggests. Journalist Graeme Jones reported that the club believe he will develop well but have no intention of paying a premium when his form has been patchy.
Despite that, Baleba himself is believed to want the move to Manchester United. Jones revealed in November that the player remains keen on joining, even though United are cooling their pursuit. Baleba’s form has dipped since the summer links, which has made United even more cautious.
For now, they are not prepared to do anything close to what Brighton want, and the feeling inside the club is that many Premier League midfield targets are simply unattainable in January.
Brighton have also made it clear they will not sell Baleba mid-season under any circumstances. That firm stance means Tottenham’s hopes are tied to a long-term strategy, likely pushing any meaningful move into 2026 when the club expects more clarity around squad building under Frank.
If Spurs truly want Baleba, they face two major obstacles. First, they must be prepared to pay at least £100 million, which is far more than Tottenham usually commit to a single player. Second, they must convince Baleba to change his mind about joining Manchester United, a club he has been drawn to since the summer.
For Tottenham to secure him, they need not only financial strength but also a convincing sporting project that persuades him his future lies in North London rather than Old Trafford.
Meanwhile, Tottenham’s transfer plans continue elsewhere. David Ornstein has recently revealed the true chances of Ivan Toney joining Spurs in January, adding more intrigue to a window that is shaping up to be important for Thomas Frank’s long-term rebuild.
