Man United confirm Carlos Beleba move from Brighton

Manchester United have officially confirmed the signing of midfielder Carlos Beleba from Brighton for a reported fee of £65 million guaranteed plus £5 million in add-ons on Tuesday, after completing his medical last night.

Baleba has put pen to paper on a five-year contract with an option for a further 12 months. The defensive midfielder is the third midfield signing, and fourth signing at Old Trafford under manager Michael Carrick.

United have been looking to reinforce their squad following Casemiro’s departure this summer, making statement signings such as Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans and goalkeeper Karl Darlow before completing the £70 million deal for midfield powerhouse Carlos Baleba.

The Cameroon international has joined from Brighton, where he established himself a reputation as one of the Premier League’s best emerging defensive midfield talents.

Baleba had been one of United’s leading targets since last autumn, and their long-standing interest finally paid off this summer after they reached an agreement with Brighton last week, with United now confirming the signing of the midfield powerhouse.

The 22-year-old is currently recovering from an ankle ligament injury he picked up during pre-season, but it’s not expected to keep him out for an extended period.

Speaking after the Cameroonian signed his deal at Old Trafford: “It is an incredible feeling to join the club of my dreams. Playing at Old Trafford is always special but the opportunity to do so as a Manchester United player will be a real honour,” Baleba told the club’s website.

“I cannot wait to work with Michael Carrick; his experience and knowledge of the game make him the perfect coach to help me reach the highest level.

“The ambition of everyone at the club is extremely clear, the future is hugely exciting, and I am determined to play my part in delivering the success that we are capable of together.”

Baleba joined Brighton from Lille in 2023 and featured 112 times for the Seagulls. He made 35 appearances last season and was absent for a spell while representing Cameroon at the Africa Cup of Nations.

The powerful midfielder further took to social media to post an emotional farewell to Brighton upon his announcement.

“I came here at 19 with little English and no idea what this club would become to me,” he wrote.

“Brighton only asked me to be myself. The staff who make the club run so well. The team-mates who took the time to understand me, on the pitch and off it. The nights at the Amex when I heard my name from that stand always made me feel at home.

“To all of the fans, staff and my team-mates. You looked after me and for that I will hold you all close to my heart. Wherever I play, this club is in how I play. Good luck Seagulls.”