Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version or go back to LFC Live.net

Liverpool look all set for one of their busiest summer transfer windows for some time this year.

The Reds have remained quiet in the market ever since Richard Hughes took over as sporting director in 2024.

However, with plenty of areas needing attention within the Liverpool squad, Hughes needs to be more active in 2025.

Had everything gone to plan, the former Bournemouth man would have already made a big signing at Liverpool.

Hughes tried, and failed, to sign Martin Zubimendi ahead of the current season.

Having missed out on Zubimendi, Liverpool have seen Ryan Gravenberch blossom as Arne Slot’s deepest lying starting midfielder.

But Gravenberch clearly needs help.

And, as a result, Liverpool are reportedly targeting Brighton’s Carlos Baleba as a major summer addition.

Photo by MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Baleba has been one of the outstanding young midfielders in the Premier League this season.

Alan Shearer called Baleba ‘absolutely wonderful‘ after he starred during the Seagulls win over Man City in November.

And after watching him become a regular with Brighton, Give Me Sport claim that both Liverpool and Man City have earmarked the 21-year-old for the summer.

MORE LIVERPOOL STORIES

The Reds are reportedly aiming to beat City to Baleba after being impressed by his performances for the Seagulls.

However, there are said to be some doubts at Anfield whether or not the Cameroonian is attainable, with Brighton supposedly set to slap a £115m asking-price on him.

READ MORE: Liverpool’s chances of signing Matheus Cunha rated after Virgil van Dijk gives seal of approval

It’s claimed that the south coast side have already fielded interest in Baleba during the first months of 2025 and as a result are confident of seeing their valuation met.

Nevertheless, Liverpool are reportedly undeterred in their interest and have Baleba on their list as a new midfield addition.

Although we’re of the opinion that Baleba could be an ideal signing for Liverpool, it’s very questionable whether the Reds should fork out such a fee on him.

The Reds have different areas they need to address in the market, such as left-back and – perhaps even more glaringly – centre-forward.

A new midfielder is surely needed too, but with three superb options and Curtis Jones also in the mix, there seems little need for Liverpool to blow the budget on someone like Baleba.

Instead, we think a cheaper option such as Angelo Stiller could be the right move for Liverpool, offering a rotational option for Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister.

Baleba is surely heading to the very top of the European game, but while it’s no surprise to hear of Liverpool’s interest, we can’t see them spending so big on the Brighton man.