Manchester United have completed the signing of Carlos Baleba from Brighton, twelve months after walking away from the same player because Brighton wanted too much for him. The 22-year-old has signed a five-year contract, with the option of a further year. United have paid £65m guaranteed with a further £5m in add-ons, and Brighton have negotiated a sell-on clause.
"I cannot wait to work with Michael Carrick," Baleba said after signing. "His experience and knowledge of the game make him the perfect coach to help me to reach the highest level."
United's director of football, Jason Wilcox, said: "Carlos is an elite midfielder with immense potential to develop further. He brings a unique combination of qualities that will really complement our squad. We are delighted to further strengthen our midfield with the addition of another established senior international with a proven track record of performing in the Premier League."
The gap between this fee and last year's asking price is the story. Last summer United were quoted a price above £100m. Omar Berrada and Jason Wilcox broke off talks over concerns that Brighton were asking for more than the £115m Chelsea paid for Moisés Caicedo in 2023, and the move died there. The fee now agreed is roughly £50m less than the one they refused.