Manchester United is close to signing midfielder Carlos Baleba from Brighton & Hove Albion following a successful medical examination [1, 2, 3].
The move represents a critical attempt by the club to stabilize a midfield that has struggled during recent campaigns. After failing to secure other high-profile targets, United views the Cameroonian international as the primary solution to their on-field tactical issues [3, 4].
Reports indicate that the two clubs are currently discussing a transfer fee of £70 million [1]. If the deal is finalized, Baleba would become the third midfield signing for the club this summer [5]. The 22-year-old [3] has reportedly passed his medical, clearing the final hurdle before a formal announcement.
While the club has moved toward a deal for Baleba, the process followed a period of uncertainty. Some reports indicated that United continued to consider alternatives after Real Madrid star Eduardo Camavinga rejected a transfer to Old Trafford [4]. However, more recent updates suggest the club has now settled on Baleba as the preferred choice [4].
An official announcement is expected imminently [1]. Some reports said the club could finalize the paperwork and make the public statement on Monday [1].
Baleba arrives at Old Trafford with a reputation for physicality and ball progression. His arrival is intended to provide the structural balance United has lacked in the center of the pitch, allowing the team to better transition from defense to attack [3].
“Manchester United is close to signing midfielder Carlos Baleba from Brighton & Hove Albion”
This transfer signals a shift in Manchester United's recruitment strategy toward younger, Premier League-proven talent. By investing heavily in a 22-year-old, the club is prioritizing long-term structural stability over immediate star power. The move also highlights the difficulty United faced in attracting elite continental talent this window, forcing a reliance on domestic options to address urgent tactical deficiencies.
