Deal Now Fully Confirmed At £65m Plus £5m

Manchester United and Brighton have exchanged all documents to finalise the transfer of Carlos Baleba, with the deal now 100 percent confirmed. The agreement is worth £65 million guaranteed, plus a further £5 million in add-ons, and includes a sell-on clause protecting Brighton's future interests.

Notably, this breakthrough follows an unsuccessful pursuit dating back to last summer, when Brighton demanded north of £100 million and United ultimately walked away. That valuation softened considerably this time around, given Baleba's dip in form throughout last season and United's increased determination to finally land their long-standing target.

Baleba becomes United's third midfield addition of the summer, joining Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans as Michael Carrick continues reshaping his squad. Sky Sports reported the midfielder underwent his medical shortly after terms were agreed, paving the way for a five-year contract at Old Trafford.

Interestingly, Baleba is currently working his way back from an ankle ligament injury sustained during pre-season. Sources close to the deal insist the issue isn't considered serious, though it may delay his competitive debut slightly as he builds toward full match fitness.

Proven Premier League Pedigree Justifies Fee

Since joining Brighton from Lille in 2023, Baleba has made 92 Premier League appearances, establishing himself as one of the division's most physically dominant young midfielders. His combination of athleticism and technical composure repeatedly drew praise, even during a challenging campaign last season.

Brighton chief executive Paul Barber had previously insisted publicly that the club had no desire to sell, describing Baleba as a player they hoped would stay for "many years." That stance ultimately shifted once United's improved offer, alongside the player's own openness to the move, made a sale increasingly logical for both parties.

For United, completing this deal continues a summer already exceeding £200 million in spending. With documents now fully signed, according to Sky Sports, Baleba's arrival strengthens Michael Carrick's engine room considerably heading into the new campaign.