Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Fabian Hurzeler has suggested that Carlos Baleba’s slow start to the season could be linked to ongoing speculation over his future.

The 21-year-old, who shone during the 2024-25 campaign, has been the subject of intense transfer interest from Manchester United and other Premier League heavyweights.

Manchester United remain keen on long-term Carlos Baleba move

United made contact with Brighton in the summer but quickly discovered that a deal was unlikely, with the Seagulls demanding more than £100m for the Cameroon international.

Despite no transfer materialising, Baleba’s form has dipped this season.

He was left out of the starting XI against Bournemouth on September 13 and substituted at half-time during the clash with Tottenham Hotspur days later.

Hurzeler admitted that the ongoing rumours may be weighing on the midfielder’s mind.

“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,” the Brighton manager explained. “That’s part of development, to stay humble and keep pushing even when big clubs come calling.”

While he stopped short of confirming that Baleba’s struggles are directly linked to the speculation, Hurzeler emphasised the importance of managing the player’s emotions and growth:

“We need to understand he’s not a machine. We need to understand his feelings, his emotions, where he comes from, and that’s our responsibility.”

Manchester United are expected to revisit their interest in Baleba in 2026, but they will likely face competition from both Liverpool and Manchester City.

In the meantime, Brighton hope to guide him back to form as he continues his development on the south coast.