Manchester United has signed 22-year-old Cameroon international midfielder Carlos Baleba from Brighton in a deal reportedly worth up to £70 million, as manager Michael Carrick continues to rebuild the team's midfield. Baleba has agreed to a five-year contract with an option for a sixth season. Although the club did not disclose the financial terms, British media reported a fee of £65 million plus up to £5 million in add-ons.

This signing follows the departures of Casemiro and a serious knee injury to Manuel Ugarte, which left the club seeking to strengthen its midfield. Earlier this summer, Manchester United had already signed Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa and Andrey Santos from Chelsea.

Baleba impressed in the Premier League last season, ranking among the competition's best players for tackles and interceptions, and placing in the top one percent for second balls won, according to the club. Football director Jason Wilcox described him as an elite midfielder with huge potential.

The signing comes after Manchester United suffered a 2-0 defeat to newly promoted Hull in their opening Premier League game. Baleba is expected to bring energy, ball-winning ability, and physical presence to a midfield undergoing major changes.

"Playing at Old Trafford is always special but the opportunity to do so as a Manchester United player will be a real honor," Baleba said.

Sources