Archive · 19 Aug 2026
Manchester United Nears £60m-Plus Carlos Baleba Transfer
Manchester United are trying to sign Carlos Baleba from Brighton.
Baleba is a 22-year-old footballer from Cameroon.
The transfer could cost more than £60 million.
United have reportedly prepared a five-year contract for him.
He may travel to Manchester for a medical examination soon.
Baleba is recovering from a small ankle injury, but it is not expected to keep him out for long.
United like him because he can win the ball and carry it forward.
However, his recent form has been less consistent than before, so the signing carries some risk.
Manchester United are close to agreeing a transfer with Brighton for Cameroon midfielder Carlos Baleba.
The total fee is expected to exceed £60 million, with payment terms still being finalized.
Baleba has a prepared five-year contract and is expected to undergo a medical in Manchester.
The 22-year-old is recovering from an ankle ligament problem but is expected to return soon.
United see Baleba’s defensive strength, athleticism and ball-carrying as a complement to their midfield.
- Who
- Manchester United, Brighton and Cameroon midfielder Carlos Baleba.
- What
- The clubs are close to a transfer agreement worth more than £60 million, with a five-year contract prepared for Baleba.
- When
- The deal is being pursued this summer; the article does not specify a date.
- Where
- Baleba is expected to travel to Manchester for medical checks after the clubs finalize the agreement.
- Why
- Manchester United want more control, defensive strength and progressive ball-carrying in midfield.
Case for the transfer
Concerns about the transfer
Midfield fit
Case for the transfer
Baleba could provide the defensive strength, aggression and progressive carrying that Manchester United need in midfield.
Concerns about the transfer
His recent form declined after a standout campaign, and his inconsistency makes the transfer a calculated risk.
Long-term potential
Case for the transfer
At 22, Baleba has significant room to improve and is viewed by people in football as a potential future world-class midfielder.
Concerns about the transfer
That potential is not guaranteed, particularly given the drop in his recent numbers and performances.
Financial commitment
Case for the transfer
United would be adding a distinctive midfield profile despite Brighton previously valuing Baleba at more than £100 million.
Concerns about the transfer
A fee above £60 million remains a major investment for a player whose form has been uneven.
- Expected transfer fee
- More than £60 million, with the payment structure still being finalized.
- Contract
- Manchester United have reportedly prepared a five-year contract for Baleba.
- Age
- 22
- Current club
- Brighton
- Injury
- An ankle ligament problem sustained during pre-season.
- Brighton appearances
- Baleba has made 112 appearances for Brighton since joining from Lille in 2023.
- Last season
- He made 35 appearances and missed a spell while representing Cameroon at the Africa Cup of Nations.