Transfer window: Manchester United reach agreement with Brighton for Carlos Baleba transfer

Manchester United are on the verge of finalizing one of the major deals of their summer transfer window. According to David Ornstein of The Athletic, the Red Devils have reached an agreement with Brighton & Hove Albion for the transfer of Carlos Baleba. The deal is valued at £65 million, with the player's personal terms already agreed. The medical is now scheduled before his move to Old Trafford is officially confirmed.

Carlos Baleba has established himself as one of the Premier League's most promising defensive midfielders. In the 2025-2026 season, the Cameroon international featured in 40 matches across all competitions for Brighton, scoring 4 goals and providing 2 assists.

His performances have been praised for his work rate, ball-winning ability, line-breaking runs, and his role in orchestrating attacking transitions. In his analysis for The Athletic, Carl Anka notes that Baleba has become one of the most complete midfielders in the English top flight, capable of making a significant impact both defensively and offensively.

Rapid rise since arriving in Europe

Trained at the Brasseries du Cameroun Football School, Carlos Baleba joined LOSC in 2022 before moving to Brighton in the summer of 2023 for a reported fee of nearly £26 million including bonuses. In the Premier League, he gradually established himself as Moisés Caicedo's successor, ultimately becoming a regular starter for the Seagulls.

His club performances have also earned him a permanent place in the Indomitable Lions squad, where he is now regarded as one of the mainstays of Cameroon’s new generation.

A strategic reinforcement for Manchester United

Also according to David Ornstein (The Athletic), Ruben Amorim was looking to strengthen his midfield with a player already accustomed to the demands of the Premier League, capable of bringing intensity, ball recovery, and quality distribution.

If the medical goes as planned, Carlos Baleba will become one of Manchester United's marquee signings this summer. His arrival would strengthen a key area of the Red Devils’ squad as they aim to reclaim a leading role in England and on the European stage.

Nouya M'toama

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Versatile journalist specializing in sports and political news, with extensive experience across radio, print and digital media platforms.

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