Manchester United have reached an agreement with Brighton to sign midfielder Carlos Baleba for £65million, plus £5m in add-ons. The deal makes Baleba United's third midfield signing of the summer transfer window.
United's opening offer of £60million, with £5m in add-ons, was rejected earlier this week, but an improved bid has now been accepted. The 22-year-old was valued in excess of £100million by Brighton last summer, but United have secured his signature at a reduced price 12 months on.
Injury and contract details
Baleba recently suffered an ankle ligament injury. The issue is not thought to be serious, but the midfielder is set to be unavailable to play immediately for United. He is in line to sign a five-year contract at Old Trafford.
United's summer spending
United have spent £85m so far this summer, signing back-up goalkeeper Karl Darlow on a free transfer, adding Andrey Santos in a £50m deal and signing Youri Tielemans for £35m. The club planned to overhaul their midfield this summer following Casemiro's departure on a free transfer.
Manuel Ugarte picked up a serious knee injury at the World Cup, further adding to the need for more reinforcements. The summer spend will reach £155m when a deal for Baleba is finalised. United will also look to sign a left-back before the transfer window closes for Premier League clubs on September 1.
