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Arsenal in fierce battle to sign Brighton’s Carlos Baleba

By on May 6, 2026

Arsenal are reportedly in a fierce battle over a deal to sign Brighton and Hove Albion star Carlos Baleba, as per Caught Offside.

After letting Moisés Caicedo join Chelsea, the Seagulls decided to replace the Ecuadorian by purchasing the Cameroonian from LOSC Lille in 2023.

The 22-year-old initially took time to adapt to the Premier League’s physicality before displaying impressive performances last season. As a result, he attracted a lot of attention ahead of this season, with Manchester United reportedly keen on securing his services.

Eventually, Brighton refused to let him leave. However, he has displayed below-average performances this season.

Still, Caught Offside claim that Baleba isn’t short of potential suitors, with Man Utd remaining keen on him, and they are currently leading the race to seal the deal.

However, Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, and Bayern Munich have also been monitoring his development closely. Moreover, Arsenal have previously shown interest in the African and have been keeping a close eye on his performances before making a potential summer swoop.

Brighton usually play hardball to sell their star assets, and considering Baleba still has a contract until 2028, they are in a strong position to demand a big fee to sell him.

Baleba to Arsenal

The report state that Brighton previously wanted around £86m but are ready to accept at least £65m. They won’t accept anything less than that despite his recent struggles.

Baleba is a dynamic defensive midfielder but can provide cover in the box-to-box role. He is extremely strong and quick; moreover, he is technically sound and has an eye for scoring goals from distance. The African is tidy with possession and is excellent in defensive contributions.

Although Baleba hasn’t been able to showcase his best this season, he is a top-class player and has plenty of time on his side to turn the situation around.

So, he would be a shrewd acquisition for Arsenal should they purchase him. However, it is going to be interesting to see whether the North London club eventually make a concrete approach to lure him to the Emirates Stadium by defeating other clubs in this race.