Manchester United Officially Sign £40m Dutch Striker, Awarded Legendary Shirt Number Upon Arrival for Unveiling Today – Congratulations to Man United Fans
Manchester United have kicked off the summer transfer window with a focus on strengthening their attack. They have confirmed the signing of Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Matheus Cunha and made a bid for Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo.
The club is clearly eager to secure a new number nine, with reports suggesting increasing interest in Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres.
After a disappointing goal-scoring season, United are prioritizing rebuilding their offensive line but should also consider bolstering their midfield.
Although with only domestic competitions this season, players like Casemiro, Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo, Manuel Ugarte, and Toby Collyer provide some options, the midfield still lacks balance.
A smart move would be to pursue Brighton and Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba.
Who is Carlos Baleba?
The Cameroonian joined Brighton in 2023 and quickly became a standout in the Premier League.
Last season, Baleba featured in 34 league games, scoring three goals and assisting once. His performance in Brighton’s November victory over Manchester City highlighted his strengths—physical dominance, progressive carries, sharp passing, and excellent game intelligence.
Though United already have a physical presence in Ugarte, Baleba’s ability to dictate play and advance the ball would add a new dimension to the midfield.
Tactical Fit at Manchester United
Baleba is young and still refining his game, sometimes over-committing defensively, but his energy and coverage are well suited for a high-intensity midfield role.
He could partner with Ugarte as a dynamic midfield duo or provide the physicality missing from players like Mainoo and Casemiro.
He ranks highly for possession recoveries and progressive runs, making him a strong asset both defensively and in advancing play.
Transfer Profile
At 21, Baleba fits Manchester United’s strategy of signing young, Premier League-proven talents. Like Cunha and Mbeumo, he is on the rise and would view United as a step forward in his career, not just a final payday.
Though expensive—estimated around €40 million by Transfermarkt—Brighton will likely demand more. United have demonstrated willingness to invest in promising youth, as shown with last summer’s signing of Leny Yoro.
With financial flexibility improving through potential sales of players like Antony, Jadon Sancho, Marcus Rashford, and Alejandro Garnacho, signing Baleba would be a sensible move if the opportunity arises.
