Manchester United have completed the signing of Carlos Baleba from Brighton & Hove Albion, with the midfielder agreeing to a five-year contract at Old Trafford. The transfer is worth an initial £65 million, with another £5 million potentially payable in add-ons, while United also hold an option to extend his deal for an additional season.

The 22-year-old Cameroon international arrives as part of a major midfield rebuild under Michael Carrick. Baleba joins fellow new additions Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans, giving United greater depth and physical presence in the centre of the pitch. He brings considerable Premier League experience after making 92 appearances for Brighton since moving from Lille three years ago.

Baleba had previously been a long-term target for United, but the club walked away from negotiations last summer after Brighton reportedly demanded more than £100 million. United's leadership considered that valuation excessive, particularly given the £115 million fee Chelsea had agreed for Moisés Caicedo in 2023. The eventual agreement represents a significantly lower investment than Brighton had previously sought.

His arrival is expected to play an important role in United's plans to build a younger and more dynamic squad. Baleba's combination of athleticism, technical ability and potential for further development should add a different dimension to the midfield, while his established Premier League experience could help him adapt quickly to the demands of his new club.