Lille midfielder Carlos Baleba is now stalling over a move to Brighton after first holding talks with Nottingham Forest. Now, his future appears uncertain with the Seagulls looking at other midfield options.
According to TalkSPORT, the Reds were keen to sign the midfielder. Furthermore, it’s claimed that Forest held talks with Baleba but he wasn’t keen on a City Ground switch.
Now, Baleba might end up staying in France. Brighton are looking elsewhere and fancy Arsenal midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga.
The 19-year-old has been with Lille since 2022. He signed for the club from Brasseries in Cameroon and he’s made just 22 senior appearances for the Ligue 1 outfit.
Last season, the defensive midfielder made 19 appearances in Ligue 1. He registered two assists and earned some praise from Lille star Remy Cabella who called him ‘incredible’.
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Forest will likely keep their focus on signing another defensive midfielder this summer. Nicolas Dominguez is the latest player to be linked with a move to the City Ground.
It’s perhaps no surprise that Baleba has rejected Forest. The Reds only stayed up by four points last season; whilst Brighton are able to offer him Europa League football during 2023/24.
Brighton and Forest knocked back by Baleba
It’s pretty clear that Forest are looking in the right areas for players. Ultimately, however, they’re being blown out of the water by clubs who have a little bit more to play with.
The Reds do need to get someone signed soon, however. An injury in midfield could leave Forest very light and they’re desperate to sign a defensive enforcer this summer.
Baleba would have been a pretty raw option for the Reds to consider. He might need some time to get up to speed in the Premier League and perhaps this isn’t the end of the world.
Only time will tell though. Baleba could now stay put this summer and that will benefit Lille considerably who could see the player’s valuation soar in the next 12 months.