Brighton’s Carlos Baleba has joined Manchester United in a £70m transfer deal.
Manchester United made a £65m up-front payment, along with a possible £5m in bonuses.
Carlos Baleba. Manchester United.
IT’S OFFICIAL! ❤️🔒
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) August 25, 2026
Baleba was signed in order to make further reinforcement in their midfield after signing Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans from Chelsea and Aston Villa respectively in the summer.
Long-Term Commitment
The Cameroonian signed a five-year contract with Manchester United with an additional one-year extension option.
“It is an incredible feeling to join the club of my dreams,” he said. “Playing at Old Trafford is always special, but the opportunity to do so as a Manchester United player will be a real honour.
“I cannot wait to work with Michael Carrick. His experience and knowledge of the game make him the perfect coach to help me to reach the highest level.
“The ambition of everyone at the club is extremely clear, the future is hugely exciting, and I am determined to play my part in delivering the success that we are capable of together.”
Tactical Need
The 2-0 loss to Hull City in Saturday’s Premier League fixture, where both Santos and Tielemans played their first game as central midfielders reinforced the need to bolster the squad with an energetic midfielder.
It came following United’s attempt to land Baleba last season when there was still time left before the transfer window closed, though their efforts were dampened due to Brighton’s evaluation of the player, which was above £100 million.
Baleba, who signed with Brighton in 2023 from Lille, is currently out injured as he hurt his ankle during Brighton’s pre-season training in Austria.
Spending Milestone
He has played 112 games for Brighton, contributing four goals in those matches, while last season saw him play 31 games in the Premier League as Brighton secured eighth place, earning qualification to the Conference League.
This transfer means that United have spent £153 million this summer in preparation for their Champions League participation for the first time since 2023-24.
