A devoted Manchester United supporter has taken an unconventional approach to back his club’s transfer ambitions by launching a GoFundMe campaign aimed at raising £120 million to help secure Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba.
The 21-year-old Cameroonian impressed last season with 34 Premier League appearances and three goals under Brighton’s new manager Fabian Hürzeler. Reports from The Athletic reveal that Manchester United have already contacted Brighton through intermediaries to discuss the possibility of a transfer. Baleba currently has three years remaining on his contract at the Amex Stadium, with an option for an additional year.
Despite the interest, a move for Baleba faces financial hurdles. Manchester United continues to navigate the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), which restrict their spending capacity. While Ian M.’s fundraiser might be more symbolic than practical, it reflects growing fan frustration and emotional investment amid the escalating costs in football transfers. According to reports, a deal for Baleba would be unlikely unless United offload several players and generate significant funds before the transfer window closes next month.
The club remains eager to strengthen its midfield, which currently includes players like Casemiro, new signing Manuel Ugarte, Toby Collyer, as well as Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo, who might be adapted for deeper roles under manager Ruben Amorim’s preferred 3-4-3 formation.
United have already spent heavily this summer, securing Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford for £71 million and Matheus Cunha from Wolves for £62.5 million. They are also close to finalizing a deal for RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Šeško, bringing their summer spending close to £200 million — the third highest in the Premier League behind Liverpool and Chelsea.
Amid this backdrop, Ian M., an England-based United fan, decided to take matters into his own hands. On Wednesday night, he launched a GoFundMe titled “Baleba to Man United Fund,” featuring an image of Baleba in his Brighton kit alongside a succinct but passionate plea: “We need this to happen.”
The campaign sets an ambitious fundraising target of £120 million — likely a tongue-in-cheek nod to modern football’s soaring transfer fees. So far, no donations have been recorded. The GoFundMe page encourages early contributions with a message: “Give £20 and be one of the first to donate — your donation is the start of Ian’s journey to success. Your early support inspires others to donate.”
