Manchester United are closing in on a deal for Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba as talks between the clubs move toward an agreement worth more than £60 million. The potential transfer could become one of United’s biggest moves of the summer and would give manager Michael Carrick another major addition to his midfield. United’s latest proposal is understood to include around £60 million up front, with a further £5 million potentially available through add ons. Brighton’s valuation remains higher than the current offer, but negotiations are reportedly progressing positively. Both clubs are continuing discussions as they work toward finding a final agreement.
The 22 year old Cameroon international has been a long term target for Manchester United. The club has monitored Baleba since last year and previously explored a potential transfer, but Brighton were unwilling to let the midfielder leave. The situation has now changed after United submitted a formal proposal and negotiations entered an advanced stage. Baleba joined Brighton from French club Lille in 2023 and has since developed into an important Premier League midfielder. His physical strength, defensive ability and impressive coverage across the pitch have made him an attractive target for United. Those qualities could provide greater balance to a midfield that the club continues to rebuild.
The potential transfer would represent another significant investment in Manchester United’s midfield. The club have already strengthened the position this summer with the arrivals of Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos. However, Carrick is still looking to add another midfielder as he continues reshaping his squad. Baleba is currently recovering from an ankle ligament injury suffered during preseason. The problem is not expected to keep him out for an extended period. If the clubs complete an agreement, reports indicate that Baleba could travel to Manchester for a medical before the transfer is finalized.
For Manchester United, completing the deal would bring an end to a long running pursuit of the Brighton midfielder. Baleba would become another major piece of Carrick’s rebuilding project and could play an important role once he returns to full fitness. While a final agreement has not yet been reached, the latest developments suggest the transfer is moving closer to completion.
