Brighton's hardline stance on Baleba exit unchanged
- Published
I am not getting the impression Brighton's stance on midfielder Carlos Baleba is weakening.
Manchester United are prioritising their midfield now they have strengthened their striking ranks, which suggests no immediate move for Paris St-Germain goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, who has been left out of the squad for Wednesday's Super Cup final against Tottenham and seems certain to leave the French club.
Brighton have been keen to stress they have no desire to or interest in selling Baleba, who has made 77 appearances for Albion since arriving from Lille for £23.2m in 2023 and has a contract that runs to 2028. They are sticking to their mantra.
Whether the 21-year-old Cameroon international accepts that fact is another matter.
United believe their signing of striker Benjamin Sesko was done on favourable terms, which felt like an indication they could do more business before the transfer window closes on 1 September.
However, they do need to sell players.
There is still no sense Rasmus Hojlund has changed his mind about being determined to fight for his place, while Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho, Antony and Tyrrell Malacia remain in limbo.
Real Betis president Angel Haro Garcia has confirmed they are still trying to bring Antony back to the club after his successful loan stint last season, but there has been no breakthrough in talks.
"It's the same as it was," said Garcia. "It's a complicated operation. I'm optimistic about Betis and Antony's willingness, but I don't know what Manchester United's final position will be."