Manchester United have completed the signing of Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba in a deal worth up to £70 million.
The 22-year-old Cameroon international joins United for a guaranteed £65 million fee, with a further £5 million available in add-ons. He has signed a five-year contract with an option for an additional year.
Baleba was one of United’s top targets this summer and becomes the club’s third midfield addition after Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans.
Speaking to the club’s website, Baleba said joining United was a “dream” and expressed his excitement about playing at Old Trafford.
“I cannot wait to work with Michael Carrick; his experience and knowledge of the game make him the perfect coach to help me reach the highest level,” he said.
Baleba joined Brighton from Lille in 2023 and made 112 appearances for the Seagulls. He featured 35 times last season but spent part of the campaign away on international duty with Cameroon at the Africa Cup of Nations.
The midfielder also posted an emotional farewell message to Brighton supporters following the confirmation of his move to Old Trafford.
Baleba arrived at Brighton as a 19-year-old and quickly developed into one of the Premier League’s most highly rated young midfielders. His performances previously attracted interest from several top European clubs, including Manchester United.
However, Brighton’s reported valuation of more than £100 million prevented a move last summer, and Baleba remained at the Amex.
His form dipped during the following campaign, raising questions about whether United should pursue the midfielder. Despite that inconsistency, his physical and defensive qualities remain a strong fit for United’s midfield needs.
Baleba offers athleticism, aggression, ball-winning ability and the capacity to carry possession through midfield. Those qualities could provide United with greater defensive strength and dynamism in the centre of the pitch.
At 22, he also has significant room for development. United are betting on Baleba returning to his best form and fulfilling the potential that made him one of Europe’s most sought-after young midfielders.
The move carries an element of risk, but United will hope Baleba can develop into a key figure in their midfield and justify their significant investment.
