Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba discussed the impact the Manchester United links had on his form.
Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba has rejected the suggestion that the transfer rumours linking him with a move to Manchester United are responsible for his dip in form this season.
The 21-year-old was a standout defensive midfielder in the Premier League last season, earning interest from Manchester United. The Red Devils had an official bid turned by Brighton, as they Seagull held out for a fee in the excess of £100 million, similar to what Chelsea paid for Caicedo a few seasons back.
The Red Devils backed off, and were expected to return in the future. However, Baleba has failed to hit the heights he reached last season, a discouraging fact for his suitors.
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What Baleba said
Baleba was one of the top-rated players in the Premier League last season across multiple defensive metrics. However, his form has markedly dipped this season.
Manchester United pursued him last summer with intent, but the Seagulls made it clear that he was not for sale, setting his transfer value beyond reach.
Hence, many analysts have attempted to fault the links to Manchester United for distracting the Cameroonian, leading to his underwhelming showing this campaign.
“I do not think it affected me. But I had a lot of pressure on me,” he explained. “I wanted to have same performances as last season. Every day I try to work hard and to get back to my level.”
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