Brighton eye Rosario Central's Pizarro in move that could free Baleba for Man Utd
Brighton & Hove Albion are monitoring Rosario Central midfielder Vicente Pizarro, a potential transfer that could facilitate the departure of Carlos Baleba to Manchester United. According to sources, a Brighton official was present last week to watch the 23-year-old Chilean score a last-minute winner for his Argentine club, signalling the Seagulls' concrete interest in the player.
No formal offer has been tabled, but the scouting mission underscores Brighton's ongoing strategy of identifying value in the South American market. Pizarro, a left-footed defensive midfielder, joined Rosario Central from Chilean giants Colo-Colo in January for a fee of €1.9 million and has swiftly established himself as a key starter. His current contract runs until 2029, and his market valuation is estimated to be around €7.5 million.
The move aligns with Brighton's proven model of recruiting and developing young talents from Latin America. Pizarro's tactical discipline and ball-playing ability are seen as traits that would suit the Premier League side's style of play. His potential arrival at the Amex Stadium is viewed within the wider context of a possible outgoing, with the club reportedly expecting significant interest in Carlos Baleba.
Manchester United's long-standing admiration for Baleba is well documented, with reports indicating personal terms were agreed with the player last summer. United are understood to be seeking at least one new central midfielder in the upcoming window, with Baleba remaining a key target. A move for Pizarro by Brighton could be interpreted as securing a successor, thereby smoothing the path for Baleba's departure should an acceptable offer arrive.
Pizarro has also attracted attention from other European clubs, including sides in Scotland, but Brighton's data-led recruitment approach often gives them an advantage in such races. For now, the Chilean international continues his development in Argentina, where his performances will be closely watched as the summer transfer window approaches. Should Brighton proceed, Pizarro would aim to follow in the footsteps of the club's previous South American successes.
