Manchester United have agreed personal terms with Carlos Baleba, but a final agreement with Brighton & Hove Albion is yet to be reached for the Cameroon international midfielder.
United have submitted an offer worth £60 million plus £5 million in potential add-ons, taking the proposed package to £65 million. However, the bid remains below Brighton’s valuation, with negotiations continuing between the two clubs.
The latest development represents a significant step forward in United’s pursuit of the 22-year-old, who has reportedly indicated his willingness to join the Old Trafford club. Sky Sports reports that Baleba is preparing to travel to Manchester ahead of a medical, although the transfer still requires the clubs to reach a full agreement.
Baleba has become a priority target as United look to strengthen their midfield. The Cameroonian joined Brighton from Lille in 2023 and has established himself as one of the Premier League club’s key midfielders.
United’s proposed package is considerably below the valuation Brighton had placed on Baleba previously. The Seagulls had reportedly demanded significantly more for the midfielder during earlier approaches, but his valuation has subsequently fallen following an inconsistent campaign and his current injury situation.
Baleba is currently recovering from an ankle ligament injury suffered during pre-season. The injury is not considered a long-term problem, but it is expected to delay his immediate availability.
If completed, Baleba would become another major midfield addition for United this summer following the arrivals of Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos. His ability to operate as a defensive or box-to-box midfielder is viewed as particularly attractive to the club.