Brighton and Hove Albion's Carlos Baleba has candidly addressed the impact of Manchester United's interest in him on his performance this season. Following speculation that linked him to a move to Old Trafford, Baleba revealed that the transfer rumors weighed on his mind during the first half of the campaign. Despite the intense interest from United, Brighton's hefty asking price of around £100 million thwarted any potential deal, leading to widespread discussion among fans and analysts alike about his future.

Baleba's situation is compounded by Manchester United's search for midfield reinforcements, especially with the anticipated departure of Casemiro at the end of the season. As Baleba acknowledged the personal terms supposedly agreed upon, his future trajectory remains uncertain amid continued speculation. The reported valuation set by Brighton has made it clear that the club intends to hold onto their promising player for now, but as the transfer window approaches, the dynamics may shift once again.

Ultimately, Baleba's admission underscores the pressures young players face regarding transfer rumors, especially when linked to high-profile clubs like Manchester United. As he continues to develop at Brighton, fans will be watching closely to see how these external factors influence his performance on the field. The upcoming summer transfer window will likely be critical for both Baleba and Manchester United as they navigate their respective futures.