Manchester United are closing in on the signing of Cameroonian midfielder Carlos Baleba after entering advanced negotiations with Brighton & Hove Albion over a summer transfer to Old Trafford.
According to The Athletic, Manchester United have submitted a proposal worth £60 million plus £5 million in add-ons for the 22-year-old midfielder.
While the offer remains below Brighton’s asking price, talks between the two Premier League clubs are described as amicable, with all parties actively working to bridge the valuation gap and seal a deal.
This push follows United’s initial attempt to sign Baleba a year ago, having agreed personal terms with the player in August 2025 before Brighton blocked the move.
Baleba has consistently voiced his desire to join Manchester United, pushing for the move alongside his representatives. Initial talks stalled due to Brighton’s former £115 million valuation, but the personal agreement reached last year remains intact, giving United a strong advantage in the final stages of negotiations.
Since joining Brighton from French side LOSC Lille in the summer of 2023 for approximately €27 million plus add-ons, Baleba has emerged as one of the Premier League’s top young defensive midfielders, renowned for his physical presence and ball-carrying capabilities.
During the previous campaign, the Cameroon international made 35 appearances across all competitions for Brighton, including 31 Premier League matches, without registering a goal or assist. Overall, he has logged 108 total appearances and scored 4 goals for the Seagulls.
If finalized, Carlos Baleba will become Manchester United’s fourth summer signing, following mid-field arrivals Andrey Santos from Chelsea (£50M), Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa (£35M), and veteran goalkeeper Karl Darlow on a free transfer.
