United twice failed to complete a deal for Baleba — in August 2025 and again in January — with Brighton blocking both attempts.
The first collapsed after Brighton demanded a fee in excess of £100 million, comparable to the Moïses Caicedo sale to Chelsea. The second saw United indicate they would revisit the situation this summer.
Romano confirmed the latest position on his YouTube channel.
"In August 2025, Manchester United had an agreement in principle with Baleba on personal terms. The player was keen on the move, but Brighton refused to sell. The same situation occurred again in January.
"At that time, Manchester United indicated that they could revisit the deal in the summer of 2026. What I can confirm is that the verbal agreement between Baleba and Manchester United from 2025 remains valid for 2026. The player is still very keen on a move to Manchester United."
Baleba's form has dipped this season after his head was turned by United's interest last summer — Brighton head coach Fabian Hürzeler acknowledged as much publicly. That decline has reportedly softened Brighton's valuation, with The Athletic suggesting a deal could be struck for around £50 million, down from the £100 million-plus demanded a year ago.
United's midfield overhaul is one of their summer priorities. Casemiro will leave when his contract expires in June. Elliot Anderson is the current first-choice target, with Baleba, Adam Wharton and Sandro Tonali also under consideration. At least two midfielders are expected to arrive.