Manchester United legend Jaap Stam has called on the club to pursue Carlos Baleba from Brighton & Hove Albion at the end of the season. The 22-year-old Cameroonian midfielder has impressed in the Premier League, and Stam believes he would be the perfect long-term partner for Kobbie Mainoo in central midfield.
Speaking exclusively to TEAMtalk, Stam said:
“I really like Carlos Baleba at Brighton and think he could replace Casemiro at Manchester United.
I like Frenkie de Jong a lot too, but it looks as though he’ll be staying at Barcelona. Manchester United need to be looking for a replacement that has good legs and the engine to run up and down the field. They also need to be very good with the ball too. Baleba can do that.
Kobbie Mainoo looks to be stepping up his levels and has been performing very well. Alongside him, you need a player who has quality on the ball, who can defend well, and can at times also join in the attack, get into the box and maybe score or create goals for his teammates.”
Why Baleba Is the Ideal Fit
- Physicality and engine: At 22, Baleba brings the athleticism, stamina, and drive that United’s midfield currently lacks.
- Ball-playing ability: Excellent in possession, with the composure and passing range to build attacks.
- Long-term upside: Already proven in the Premier League, he has the tools to develop into a world-class midfielder under the right coaching.
- Partnership with Mainoo: The two young talents could form a dynamic, complementary central midfield duo for years to come – Mainoo creative, Baleba powerful and relentless.
Price Tag and Challenges Brighton are likely to demand around £75 million for Baleba – a significant fee, especially given United’s ongoing financial and FFP constraints. However, Stam and many experts believe the investment would be justified by his quality and long-term potential.
United’s Current Midfield Situation The midfield lacks balance and physical presence at the highest level. Casemiro has declined noticeably, and while Mainoo is a shining light, the team desperately needs a dynamic box-to-box partner. Baleba could provide exactly that – and grow alongside Mainoo for the future.
Man United fans – do you agree with Jaap Stam?
- Should United pay £75 million for Carlos Baleba?
- Or look elsewhere (like Frenkie de Jong if a deal becomes possible)?