Brighton are keen to keep hold of Baleba, who is under contract until 2028 with the option of a further 12 months, and warned United it would take a fee around the £115 million ($156 million) Chelsea paid to sign Moisés Caicedo two years ago to get a deal for Baleba over the line.

Manchester United are prepared to look elsewhere to strengthen their midfield.

Interest is set to be reignited next year, and while all hope isn't lost, senior figures at the club think a deal in this transfer window before 1 September is unlikely.