Cameroon’s Baleba joins Man United to boost midfield options

Cameroon's Carlos Baleba has joined Premier League champions Manchester United from Brighton and Hove Albion, the club confirmed on Tuesday. The 22-year-old midfielder is the third signing by United during the summer transfer window. Manchester United stated in a statement that the deal is subject to registration. The reported £70 million fee brings the club's total spending on midfield reinforcements this summer to over £150 million.

Baleba will bolster the midfield alongside Belgium's Youri Tielemans and Brazil's Andrey Santos, following the departure of veteran Casemiro at the end of last season. According to Manchester United, Baleba has established himself as one of the most talented midfielders in the Premier League. In the 2024/25 season, he ranks sixth in tackles and interceptions among midfielders in the league, and fourth in progressive ball carries per 90 minutes.

United had shown interest in signing Baleba a year ago but declined due to Brighton's high asking price. The 22-year-old expressed his excitement about joining the club of his dreams and working with experienced coach Michael Carrick.