Manchester United have completed the signing of Cameroon midfielder Carlos Baleba from Brighton and Hove Albion.
Quick facts
- Baleba has agreed a five-year deal with Manchester United.
- United hold an option to add another 12 months to the contract.
- The transfer could reach £70 million: £65 million initially, plus £5 million in performance-related additions.
- Baleba joined Brighton from Lille in 2023 and made 112 appearances for the club.
The 20-year-old has committed his future to United on a contract running for five years, with the club retaining the right to extend it by a further season. The overall package could total £70 million, comprising an upfront £65 million fee and a possible £5 million in add-ons.
Baleba moved to Brighton from French club Lille in 2023 and established himself as a key player on the south coast. His 112 appearances for the Premier League side helped build his reputation as one of the competition’s outstanding young midfield talents.
United had tracked the Cameroon international for an extended period before renewing their pursuit once Brighton opened the door to discussions over a transfer. His arrival forms part of a significant overhaul in midfield, following the summer acquisitions of Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans.
Manager Carrick expects Baleba to bring power, intensity and defensive quality to the centre of the pitch as he continues rebuilding the squad. The midfielder has called his move to Old Trafford a dream come true as he starts a fresh chapter with the 20-time English champions.
