Fernandes spotted in lengthy chat with Brighton's Baleba as Ugarte eyes United exit

Bruno Fernandes was seen engaging in a prolonged discussion with Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba following the final whistle at the Amex Stadium, adding fresh momentum to speculation linking the 22-year-old Cameroonian with a move to Manchester United this summer.

Initially, Fernandes appeared to offer a brief farewell before returning for a more substantial exchange, prompting United supporters on social media to dub him “agent Fernandes.” Baleba was also spotted talking with Joshua Zirkzee in the tunnel and called out to Patrick Dorgu as the Danish wing-back was conducting a post-match interview. When a reporter asked Dorgu whether he would welcome playing alongside Baleba at United next season, he grinned and replied: “No comment.”

Baleba had been keen on a move to Old Trafford last summer, but Brighton’s £100 million asking price ended those discussions before they could progress. His form has since dipped, with Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler publicly acknowledging that the transfer speculation had affected the midfielder’s performances. That downturn in form means United could now acquire him at a significantly reduced fee.

The Baleba interest arrives as United prepare for a midfield overhaul under newly appointed permanent manager Michael Carrick, who signed a two-year contract after guiding the club to a third-place finish and Champions League qualification. The departure of Casemiro has already left a gap in the engine room, and Manuel Ugarte appears likely to follow him out of the door.

Ugarte, speaking to journalists in Uruguay ahead of the World Cup, was candid about his time at Old Trafford. “This year wasn’t the best at Manchester United,” the 25-year-old said, adding that he was “open to whatever comes” when asked about his future. United are reportedly willing to sell the Uruguayan this summer after his move to the club failed to deliver the expected returns.

Carrick faces a demanding first pre-season as he attempts to reshape a squad that must compete with Arsenal and Manchester City for the title next term. Midfield reinforcement is widely regarded as the most pressing priority, and Baleba’s potential availability at a cut-price fee could make him an attractive option as the summer transfer window opens.