Cameroon’s Baleba joins as Man United boost midfield options

Manchester United has significantly boosted its midfield options by securing the signing of Carlos Baleba from Brighton and Hove Albion for a reported fee of £70 million ($95 million). The 22-year-old Cameroonian international is the third midfielder to join the Red Devils during the current summer transfer window, following the arrivals of Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos. This influx of talent aims to reshape United's midfield following the departure of veteran Casemiro at the end of last season.

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Manchester United is pleased to confirm that Carlos Baleba has joined the club, subject to registration.

The acquisition of Baleba underscores United's substantial investment in midfield reinforcements, with total spending in this area now exceeding £150 million for the window. The Premier League club stated that Baleba has already established himself as one of the league's most promising midfielders. His performance statistics from the 2024/25 season highlight his defensive capabilities and ball-carrying prowess, ranking sixth among midfielders for combined tackles and interceptions and fourth for progressive ball carries per 90 minutes.

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Baleba has already established himself as one of the most talented midfielders in the Premier League.

United had previously shown interest in Baleba a year prior but was deterred by Brighton's asking price. Despite a less impressive final season with Brighton, the Old Trafford club remained keen on his potential. Baleba expressed his excitement about joining Manchester United, calling it "an incredible feeling to join the club of my dreams." He conveyed his eagerness to play at Old Trafford and highlighted the opportunity to work with Michael Carrick, whose experience he believes will be instrumental in his development.

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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's arrival is expected to add dynamism and depth to Manchester United's midfield. His statistical achievements in the Premier League suggest he possesses the attributes needed to succeed at a top club. The club's significant outlay on midfield reinforcements signals a clear strategy to rebuild and strengthen the squad for future competitions.

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