BRIGHTON manager Fabian Hurzeler admits Carlos Baleba’s slow start to the season is likely linked to Manchester United’s failed summer interest.
The highly-rated Cameroonian midfielder was the subject of intense speculation over the summer after United made an enquiry.
But the Red Devils’ pursuit was stalled when Brighton slapped a £115million price tag on him.
Baleba was a key figure in Brighton’s impressive 2024/25 campaign, but has yet to replicate that form this season.
The 21-year-old has already been dropped from the starting line-up in Brighton’s 2-1 loss to Bournemouth and was hauled off at half-time in the weekend’s draw with Tottenham.
Hurzeler has previously hinted that Baleba’s dip in form could be attributed to the distractions surrounding the attention but was more specific after the latest disappointing showing.
He explained: “For sure, when a young boy reads there is interest from Manchester United with a big, big offer, it might affect him deep, deep down.
“That’s also part of the development – understanding that when you play well, big clubs come calling.
“But he needs to keep pushing, stay humble, and focus on developing with Brighton.”
He continued: “I can’t give you a clear answer if it’s really affected him or not.
“But for sure, he’s a young boy, and we need to understand that he’s not a machine that just keeps going.
“We need to take into account his feelings and emotions, and that’s our responsibility.”
Baleba has been one of the standout performers since his arrival at Brighton from Lille in 2023, quickly earning a reputation as one of the Premier League’s best young midfielders.
Last season, he made 40 appearances for the Seagulls, ranking first for tackles, tackles won, interceptions, and fouls drawn.
However, his performances have noticeably dropped this term, with his ranking among teammates slipping.
Brighton have been keen to keep hold of their young star, knowing they can potentially make a massive profit from his sale, much like they did with Moises Caicedo.
The Seagulls sold the Ecuadorian for £115million to Chelsea two seasons ag0, despite having paid just £4.5million to sign him a few years earlier.
However, holding onto Baleba and hoping to develop him into a world-class talent may be backfiring in the short term.
He was left out of the starting lineup against Bournemouth with his manager explaining the challenges he’s faced since being linked to United.
The Brighton boss said: “I think it’s normal for a young player when the media creates the noise around him.
“It’s not easy for this player to handle it. Therefore, we need to give him time and support so he can return to his best.”
“He’s a young player, and we have to accept that they don’t always show the consistency we want to see.
“Everyone gets affected by the noise, especially when you are that young.”
Baleba still has three years left on his current contract but with continued struggles, Brighton may be tempted to cash in for the right offer next summer.
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