Manchester United have struck an official agreement with Brighton & Hove Albion to sign 22-year-old Cameroonian midfielder Carlos Baleba.
The Red Devils finalized a deal worth £65 million plus £5 million in performance-related add-ons after their initial £60m opening offer was knocked back earlier in the week. Personal terms on a five-year contract were already locked in, with the player set to complete his medical check and formalize his move to Old Trafford.
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| Carlos Baleba to Manchester United Deal Completes |
Transfer Breakdown & Outgoings
The Baleba Breakthrough: Manchester United reignited their long-standing interest in Baleba after Brighton valued him over £100m a year prior. United negotiated the overall fee down to £70m following a lower-volume 2025–26 campaign by the midfielder.
Rebuilding the Engine Room: Baleba becomes Michael Carrick’s third major midfield signing of the 2026 summer window, following the arrivals of Youri Tielemans (£35m from Aston Villa) and Andrey Santos (£50m from Chelsea). The total summer outlay on midfield reinforcements stands at £150m.
Midfield Loan Exit Talks: With Baleba, Tielemans, and Santos coming in alongside Kobbie Mainoo, United are now in active talks regarding loan exits for fringe squad options to streamline the roster before the transfer deadline.
Injury & Availability: Baleba is recovering from a minor ankle ligament issue suffered in pre-season. While not deemed severe, he will undergo final medical assessments before making his matchday debut.
Manchester United Midfield Restructure
| Parameter | Details |
| Player | Carlos Baleba (22 | Central Midfielder | Cameroon) |
| Transfer Fee | £65 Million + £5 Million Add-ons (£70m total package) |
| Contract Length | 5 Years (Through June 2031) |
| Selling Club | Brighton & Hove Albion |
| 2026 Summer Midfield Arrivals | Youri Tielemans (£35m), Andrey Santos (£50m), Carlos Baleba (£70m) |
