Liverpool are reportedly monitoring Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba as a potential summer transfer target.
The Reds currently boast a strong midfield, with Ryan Gravenberch making significant progress under Arne Slot, while Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai continue to be key figures at Anfield.
Despite this, Liverpool were keen on signing Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad last summer, but the deal fell through. Now, according to Football Insider, they have shifted their focus to Baleba as another possible reinforcement for their midfield.
Liverpool are said to be “fully aware” of Baleba’s talent, with the 21-year-old widely regarded as a player with a promising future.
Liverpool to Battle Chelsea for Baleba’s Signature
The report also highlights Chelsea’s interest in Baleba, which is not surprising given their history of signing players from Brighton. Moises Caicedo, Robert Sanchez, and Marc Cucurella all made the switch from the Seagulls to Stamford Bridge, while Chelsea also previously recruited manager Graham Potter from the south coast club.
Chelsea’s strategy of acquiring top young talents could appeal to Baleba, as it may offer him more playing time in Enzo Maresca’s squad.
However, Liverpool arguably present a more attractive project at the moment, with Slot’s team currently leading the Premier League and in contention for the title. That said, Baleba will likely prioritize regular game time, and Chelsea could provide a clearer path to minutes.
Even so, Chelsea’s midfield is already highly competitive, with Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez, and Romeo Lavia among the options in that department.
