British media: Manchester United wants to sign Barba, but may need to break the transfer record

According to multiple British media reports, if Manchester United wants to introduce midfield star Carlos Barba from Brighton, they will have to prepare a huge amount of funds, which may even break the club's existing transfer fee record.

Barba has great potential and is regarded as a star of the future.

BBC pointed out that transfer negotiations with Brighton have always been difficult. Club President Tony Bloom is known for his tough and savvy negotiation style. At present, Brighton has no plan to sell Barba this summer. After all, the new season is about to begin and the team needs to maintain its lineup.

According to Talksport, Barba's transfer price may be as high as £100 million, close to the £115 million record set by Chelsea when signing Moises Kessedo in the summer of 2023. Once joined, Barba is expected to become the future core of the "Blue Army" midfielder and replace Kessedo.

At present, Manchester United's team history signing bid is still Paul Pogba who returned for £89 million in the summer of 2016.

However, BBC analysts believe that Manchester United may be relatively smooth in reaching an agreement with Barba because the players are open to the transfer Red Devils. The real challenge lies in the club's determination - after all, Manchester United is close to signing striker Benjamin Sesco from Leipzig for nearly £80m.

In the 2025 summer transfer window, Manchester United is actively strengthening the midfield. Captain Bruno Fernandez has publicly called on the management to introduce more new players to enhance the depth of the midfield and frontcourt. Barba, who is only 21 years old, is considered an ideal candidate for his outstanding running ability, skilled skills and strong interception and steal performance.

In the 2024/25 season, Barba made 40 appearances in various competitions, playing a key role in coach Fabian Hezele's system and has become an indispensable midfield pillar for the team.