Manchester United have reportedly reached an agreement with Brighton over the signing of Carlos Baleba in a deal worth up to £70 million. The Red Devils are expected to pay £65 million upfront, with a further £5 million available through bonuses, while Brighton have also secured a sell-on clause as part of the agreement.

The 22-year-old midfielder has emerged as a key target as Manchester United look to add more energy, physicality and athleticism to their midfield. His potential arrival would follow the earlier signings of Andrey Santos from Chelsea and Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa, giving manager Michael Carrick considerably more options in the middle of the pitch.

Baleba joined Brighton from Lille in 2023 and has since developed into an important midfielder, although he is currently recovering from an ankle injury suffered during Brighton’s preseason camp in Austria. The player is reportedly keen on the move to Old Trafford, and the latest progress in negotiations means he could undergo his medical before completing the transfer.

If the deal is finalised, Manchester United’s summer spending will rise to around £153 million. Baleba is expected to play a major role in Carrick’s plans, particularly after Casemiro’s departure and Manuel Ugarte’s injury concerns. His versatility could also provide an emergency option at left-back, where United still need greater depth, although his primary role is expected to remain in midfield.