Manchester (United Kingdom) (AFP) – Manchester United further bolstered their midfield with the signing of Carlos Baleba from Brighton for a reported £70 million ($95 million) fee on Tuesday.
Issued on: 25/08/2026 - 21:12
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The 22-year-old is the third midfielder signed by the Red Devils during the summer transfer window after the arrivals of Belgium's Youri Tielemans and Brazilian Andrey Santos.The Cameroon international has signed a five-year contract, with the option for United to extend for a further year."Manchester United is pleased to confirm that Carlos Baleba has joined the club, subject to registration," the 20-time Premier League champions said in a statement."Baleba has already established himself as one of the most talented midfielders in the Premier League," the statement added.United had been interested in signing the former Lille man a year ago following two impressive seasons but baulked at Brighton's reported £100 million asking price.Following the speculation, Baleba's form suffered last season, but United retained their interest and this time were able to reach an agreement with Brighton.The deal with cost United a reported initial fee of £65 million plus a potential £5m in add-ons."It is an incredible feeling to join the club of my dreams," said Baleba."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."'Unique qualities'
