Brighton boss breaks silence on Baleba to Man Utd talk

Brighton & Hove Albion manager Fabian Hurzeler has ruled out the prospect of Carlos Baleba joining Manchester United during the January transfer window.

The Cameroon international was a top target for the Mancunian giants over the summer, but a deal did not materialise as they could not afford the reported asking price.

United were put off by the reported £115 million valuation set by the Seagulls, but there have been claims that the club could return for his services in January.

This story has been put to bed by Hurzeler, who has clarified that Baleba won't be leaving the South Coast outfit until the end of the campaign.

He told reporters: "He's a player from Brighton and no matter what the rumours are, he will be a player for Brighton until the end of the season."

United are yearning for a top-class defensive midfielder as soon as possible. Brighton's stance could urge him to pursue an alternative in January.