Mbeumo tries to convince 'little brother' who is top target to join Man Utd

Bryan Mbeumo has emerged as an unexpected influence in Manchester United’s ongoing pursuit of Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba.

The Cameroonian winger, who joined United for £71 million this summer, has been acting as an informal ambassador for the club by trying to convince his international teammate to follow him to Old Trafford.

During recent international duty with Cameroon, Mbeumo and Baleba were seen spending significant time together, with insiders describing their relationship as one of “big brother and little brother.”

The 26-year-old has reportedly been sharing positive experiences of life under manager Ruben Amorim, praising the team’s attacking system and the renewed ambition that United’s project represents.

He is believed to have told Baleba that joining United would be a “special opportunity” to grow under Amorim’s guidance in what many view as the beginning of a new era at the club.

Baleba, 21, has been one of Brighton’s standout performers since arriving from Lille in 2023. His energetic, press-resistant style has quickly made him one of the most sought-after young midfielders in the Premier League.

United see him as the ideal fit for Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 formation, providing physicality and composure at the base of midfield alongside captain Bruno Fernandes.

Despite United’s admiration, Brighton remain reluctant to sell, valuing the midfielder at around £100 million.

Reports suggest a transfer is far more likely next summer, as United plan a renewed push when they have greater financial flexibility.

Amorim made Baleba one of his top priorities in 2025, believing his arrival could create the same kind of midfield balance that underpinned his success at Sporting CP.

Mbeumo’s efforts reflect a growing trend in United’s recruitment approach: focusing on building trust and “player buy-in” before tabling official bids.

Similar personal connections helped Mbeumo himself move to Manchester despite offers from Arsenal and Tottenham. Now, his behind-the-scenes influence could play a pivotal role in shaping United’s summer transfer window — and potentially in bringing one of the league’s brightest young midfielders to Old Trafford.