Andre Onana and Joao Pedro react to Carlos Baleba’s Brighton announcement
Carlos Baleba’s announcement on social media gained traction from multiple stars across the Premier League on social media.
Baleba has firmly established himself as one of the breakout stars of the campaign, playing a key role in Brighton’s progress under Fabian Hurzeler.
The 21-year-old has made 37 appearances across all competitions, contributing four goals and two assists while dictating play from midfield with maturity beyond his years.
His standout performances have attracted attention from some of the Premier League’s top clubs. Arne Slot’s side are among those interested, but Football Insider revealed that that Liverpool are reluctant to meet Brighton’s steep £100 million valuation for Baleba.
Still, Baleba’s form hasn’t gone unrewarded. The midfielder marked a personal milestone with Brighton recently an achievement that drew praise from several high-profile players on social media.
| Season statistics | Carlos Baleba |
| Appearances | 37 |
| Goals | 4 |
| Assists | 2 |
Carlos Baleba wins Brighton’s young player of the year award
After an outstanding campaign on the south coast, Baleba confirmed on Instagram that he has been named Brighton’s Young Player of the Season.
The post drew admiration from across the Premier League, with Manchester United’s Andre Onana, Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo and Tariq Lamptey all liking the announcement. Meanwhile, teammate Joao Pedro commented: “Congrats my little brother”.
Baleba has been a standout performer for Brighton, quickly emerging as one of the brightest young talents in the Premier League.
His tenacity, physicality and composure in midfield have been key to Brighton’s steady campaign under Hurzeler, offering the team a solid platform in the centre of the park.
It’s those very qualities that have caught the eye of the new Premier League champions. Football Insider revealed in February that Liverpool are long-term admirers of Baleba and after failing to secure a midfield addition last summer, he could be back on the radar in the upcoming window.
Brighton set for summer bids as Bart Verbruggen attracts Man United attention
Baleba isn’t the only Brighton star attracting interest as Football Insider revealed goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen is also being tracked by Manchester United.
Mick Brown, the club’s former chief scout, revealed that United scouts have been monitoring Verbruggen throughout the season and are now preparing a potential summer move.
With Onana facing criticism for a series of high-profile errors and even being dropped in April, a new first-choice goalkeeper could be high on Ruben Amorim’s wishlist as he reshapes his squad.
For now, Brighton will be hoping both Baleba and Verbruggen remain focused on finishing the season strongly, despite mounting transfer speculation.