MANCHESTER: Manchester United have completed the signing of Carlos Baleba from Brighton, strengthening their midfield after an underwhelming start to the new Premier League campaign.
The Old Trafford club will pay an initial £65 million for the 22-year-old midfielder, with a further £5m potentially payable in add-ons. Brighton have also negotiated a sell-on clause as part of the agreement.
Baleba has signed a five-year contract with Manchester United, which includes an option to extend his stay for another year.
The Manchester United transfer follows the club’s decision to add further depth and quality to midfield after the summer arrivals of Andrey Santos from Chelsea and Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa.
Carlos Baleba joins Manchester United
Baleba expressed his excitement after completing his move to Old Trafford, describing Manchester United as the club of his dreams.
He said playing at Old Trafford had always been special and that representing Manchester United at the stadium would be a major honour. Baleba also praised manager Michael Carrick and said his experience and knowledge could help him reach the highest level.
The midfielder added that the ambition at Manchester United was clear and that he was determined to contribute to the club’s future success.
Manchester United revive Baleba interest
Manchester United had previously attempted to sign Baleba around last year’s transfer deadline but were discouraged by Brighton’s valuation, which was reportedly above £100m at the time.
The club revived its interest this summer and eventually negotiated a deal worth £65m initially, significantly below Brighton’s previous asking price.
Baleba joined Brighton from French club Lille in 2023 and quickly established himself as an important part of the Seagulls’ midfield.
He made 112 appearances for Brighton, scoring four goals, including 31 Premier League appearances last season as Brighton finished eighth and secured qualification for the Conference League.
Baleba currently sidelined with injury
The new Manchester United midfielder is currently unavailable after suffering an ankle injury during Brighton’s pre-season training camp in Austria.
His arrival nevertheless represents another major investment by United as the club looks to strengthen its squad ahead of a return to the Champions League.
The signing comes shortly after United suffered a 2-0 defeat by Hull City in their Premier League opener, with Santos and Tielemans making their midfield debuts in that match.
Manchester United spending reaches £153m
Baleba’s arrival takes Manchester United’s summer spending to around £153m as the club prepares for its return to the Champions League.
The transfer represents a significant commitment from United as they look to rebuild their midfield and challenge for major honours under Michael Carrick.
With Baleba now added to the squad alongside Santos and Tielemans, Manchester United have significantly increased their options in the centre of the pitch.
