I Watched Carlos Baleba's Liverpool 'Audition' and This Is How He Got On

Mick Brown, scouting expert, provides an in-depth analysis of Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba's performance during a recent match at Anfield, viewed as a potential "audition" for Liverpool under manager Arne Slot. Baleba, the 21-year-old Cameroonian talent valued at around £87m, has attracted interest from top Premier League clubs, including Liverpool and Manchester United, due to his promising displays in Brighton's midfield.

The game against Liverpool served as a high-stakes showcase for Baleba, who has been heavily linked with a big-money move. Brown watched closely, evaluating the youngster's technical skills, physicality, and decision-making against elite opposition. Despite Brighton's competitive showing, Baleba struggled to impose himself. He recorded no key passes, lost possession 10 times, and failed to influence key moments, echoing a disappointing "audition" at Old Trafford earlier in the season where Manchester United fans called for a price drop after a lackluster display in a 4-2 loss.^[3][4]

Brown highlights Baleba's strengths—impressive ball-carrying, vision, and tenacity in duels—but notes critical weaknesses exposed at Anfield: poor end-product in the final third, vulnerability under pressure, and lapses in positional discipline. "He has the raw tools for a Slot system, but this performance raised red flags on consistency," Brown observes. Liverpool scouts, present in force, may now reconsider amid concerns over his readiness for the Premier League's intensity.^[2][4]

Brighton's high valuation, north of £100m, has deterred suitors like Manchester United, who prioritize more reliable options such as Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton. Baleba himself hinted at United ambitions via social media pre-Old Trafford, but recent outings suggest he must elevate his game. For Liverpool, this audition might prompt a withdrawal of interest, with alternatives like Jeremy Jacquet emerging.^[3][5][6]

In summary, while Baleba's potential remains evident, his Anfield display fell short, potentially cooling Liverpool's pursuit in a competitive transfer market.

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