Manchester United are on the verge of completing a major move for Carlos Baleba from Brighton, with a verbal agreement now in place for a package that starts at £65m and could climb to £70m with performance-related bonuses.
The Cameroon midfielder has been cleared to undergo his medical checks over the weekend. Still, a lingering ankle issue means his first appearance for the Red Devils is likely to be postponed for several weeks.
Provided the medical goes smoothly, Baleba will become the fourth addition to Michael Carrick’s squad this summer, joining Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans, and Karl Darlow.
Carlos Baleba medical scheduled for Manchester United
As reported by Fabrizio Romano, United and Brighton have shaken hands on a deal for Baleba, with the total fee potentially reaching £70m once all clauses are triggered.
Brighton have granted the 21-year-old permission to travel for his medical this weekend, though his current ankle complaint will delay his competitive debut for the Old Trafford outfit.
Baleba’s arrival is set to bolster United’s midfield options, adding another layer of quality alongside the earlier captures of Santos and Tielemans.
Manchester United transfer plans following Baleba
During his pre-Hull press conference on Thursday, Carrick was quizzed about the club’s broader transfer strategy, with the team still active in the market ahead of Deadline Day.
With Tyrell Malacia having departed on a free transfer and talks over Newcastle’s Lewis Hall stalling, a new left-back appears to be the top priority for the coaching staff.
Carrick emphasised that the club is actively working to enhance the squad and capitalize on every opportunity before the window shuts.
Man Utd aiming to end the window on a high
The United boss reiterated his focus on squad improvement and forward momentum, noting that the team is already making strides in that direction.
“I just think we’re looking to strengthen the squad. We’re certainly working towards that, making the most of the situation that we have and trying to improve things and trying to move forward,” Carrick said.
“You know, I said the same thing to you last time. So, yeah, certainly trying to make the most of the opportunities to finish the window stronger than we went into it.
“And I think we’re a good way to doing that, so far.”