Man Utd legend Rio Ferdinand a big fan of Brighton star Carlos Baleba

The 21-year-old has impressed since his move from Lille to the Seagulls in 2023, and now finds himself at the heart of a transfer tug-of-war.

United legend Rio Ferdinand has publicly urged the Red Devils to abandon their pursuit of RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko and instead focus their efforts on signing Baleba.

With the arrivals of Matheus Cunha from Wolves and Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford, and a frontline already boasting Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee, Ferdinand insists manager Ruben Amorim is well-stocked in attack.

The call to prioritise Baleba has been echoed by United's new forward Matheus Cunha, who believes the Brighton man has the potential to win football's most prestigious individual honour.

Baleba, encouraged by recent praise from both Cunha and reigning Ballon d'Or winner Rodri, has been a standout performer in the Premier League since his arrival last year. His powerful displays and growing maturity have attracted admirers across Europe.

"Declan Rice, Matheus Cunha, Joelinton, they've all told me I've got it in me. I want to win the Ballon d'Or like Rodri," Baleba told The Sun in May.

Asked about Man Utd's needs, Ferdinand said: "If I don't get a striker, I'd go midfield. There's only one name I'm thinking about, I've got to be honest, who I think fits the bill for what we need.

"An Amorim-type player as well. Physically great, can drive with the ball, can take it in all areas, very good tactically, great energy, great legs, Premier League experience, centre midfield. Baleba.

"That's who I go and get. That's my man. That's the one I go and get. I go and break the bank. So if I got the money for the four players that are surplus to requirements now, would I get a number nine or would I get Baleba?

"Would I get a number nine I'm not sure about, who's a bit young, inexperienced, or would I get Baleba with Premier League experience and know what he can do here? I'm going Baleba, sorry.

“I'm going to go with Baleba. I think he'll have a huge impact on this squad, on this team. You free up a few people in that midfield area as well to have a little less responsibility defensively because I think he's all-action. He can do it all.”