Manchester United Near to Close Deal for Carlos Baleba

The 22-year-old is understood to be preparing to travel to Manchester for a medical examination as the clubs move closer to finalising an agreement. A five-year contract already awaits the player’s signature once the formalities are completed, signalling strong intent from the Old Trafford side to complete the transfer swiftly.

The proposed package is expected to exceed £60 million, though the precise fee and payment structure remain under discussion. Baleba has long ranked among United’s priority targets this summer and would become their third midfield arrival of the window following the earlier captures of Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans. His dynamic style and ball-winning qualities are viewed as valuable additions to a squad still taking shape under the current management.

Currently recovering from an ankle ligament injury sustained during pre-season, the midfielder is not expected to face a lengthy absence. The setback has not derailed negotiations, with both clubs working toward a resolution that satisfies Brighton’s valuation while remaining realistic for United’s budget. Baleba first joined Brighton from French club Lille in 2023 and has since made 112 appearances for the Seagulls, establishing himself as a key figure in their midfield.

Last season he featured 35 times before a spell away representing Cameroon at the Africa Cup of Nations. Despite a more inconsistent campaign that contributed to a drop in his market value from the lofty figures quoted a year earlier, United have remained convinced of his long-term potential. The reduced asking price has allowed fresh momentum in talks that previously stalled when Brighton demanded well over £100 million.

Once the remaining details are settled, the deal would mark another step in United’s efforts to strengthen their central engine room. Families of supporters and the wider football community will watch closely as the final paperwork is prepared and the medical process begins, bringing one of the summer’s more closely followed transfer stories toward a conclusion.