Manchester United has officially announced the signing of midfielder Carlos Baleba from Brighton & Hove Albion on a five-year deal, confirmed on Tuesday.
The total fee for the transfer is reported to be £65 million ($88.6m) with an additional £5 million ($6.8m) in potential add-ons, according to ESPN sources. The agreement also includes a clause that allows for a one-year extension of Baleba’s contract.
The 22-year-old midfielder arrives at Old Trafford to enhance a revamped midfield, joining new players like Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans.
Baleba, an international player for Cameroon, has made 92 appearances in the Premier League with Brighton since his transfer from Lille three years ago.
“Joining the club of my dreams is an incredible feeling,” said Baleba in a statement from United. “Playing at Old Trafford is always special, but being able to do it as a player for Manchester United will be a true honor.”
“I am eager to work with Michael Carrick; his experience and understanding of the game make him the ideal coach to help me reach my highest potential.”
“The ambition within the club is extremely clear, and the future looks very exciting. I am determined to contribute to our shared success.”
Sources indicated to ESPN that United was quoted over £100 million for Baleba last summer.
CEO Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox withdrew from negotiations last year due to Brighton’s demands for a fee exceeding the £115 million Chelsea agreed to pay for Moisés Caicedo in 2023.
“Carlos is an elite midfielder with extraordinary potential,” said Wilcox. “His unique skill set will greatly enhance our squad.”
“We are thrilled to strengthen our midfield by adding another established senior international with a proven Premier League track record,” Wilcox added. “Carlos’ eagerness to join Manchester United and his belief in our collective ambitions make him an ideal fit as we work towards building a dynamic and entertaining team ready for competition on multiple fronts.”
Reported by ESPN’s Rob Dawson.