Manchester United have agreed a deal to sign Cameroon midfielder Carlos Baleba from Brighton for £65 million, with a further £5 million in add-ons.
The deal, which could eventually be worth £70 million, was confirmed on Friday night by transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, who gave the move his “Here we go” verdict.
Baleba, 22, is heading to Old Trafford after three seasons at Brighton, where he has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most combative young midfielders.
United have been keen to strengthen the middle of the pitch, and Baleba fits the profile they have been looking for.
He is strong in the tackle, covers plenty of ground and is comfortable carrying the ball forward. More importantly, he brings the sort of physical presence United have often lacked when games become fast and demanding.
That could be one of the biggest benefits of the deal.
United have had too many occasions when their midfield has been unable to impose itself on matches, leaving the defence under pressure and making it difficult for the forwards to get into the game.
Baleba gives them another option in that department.
His ability to win the ball and immediately push the team forward could also allow United to play with more intensity, rather than relying on their attackers to create something from a midfield that has struggled to provide enough support.
