Manchester United and Brighton & Hove Albion are closing in on an agreement for midfielder Carlos Baleba, with talks continuing over a package that could reach £65 million.

United have proposed an initial fee of about £60 million, equivalent to €70 million or $81 million, plus a further £5 million in add-ons. The offer is understood to be below Brighton’s preferred valuation, but negotiations remain amicable as all parties work toward a deal that would take the Cameroon international to Old Trafford.

Baleba, 22, is currently working his way back from an ankle ligament injury. The problem is not regarded as serious and is not expected to keep him out for an extended period.

United’s midfield reshuffle

Midfield has been a major priority for Manchester United during the summer transfer window. Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos have already joined from Aston Villa and Chelsea respectively, while United agreed a deal for Atalanta midfielder Ederson before withdrawing because of concerns about the Brazil international’s knee.

United also pursued Elliot Anderson, but the England international chose a move to Manchester City. If completed, Baleba’s arrival would add another option alongside Tielemans, Santos, Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes.

Manuel Ugarte is sidelined with the knee injury he sustained during the World Cup with Uruguay, while Mason Mount has missed the final two matches of pre-season.

Why United remain convinced by Baleba

Baleba joined Brighton from Lille in 2023 and has made 112 appearances for the south-coast club. He played 35 times last season, although his campaign was interrupted by the Africa Cup of Nations and a series of injury issues.

Manchester United explored signing Baleba last summer and continue to view his Premier League performances and underlying data as a strong fit for the squad. The club rates his ground coverage, ability to win possession and passing, while his left-footedness could potentially give the team cover at left-back.

Baleba also impressed for Cameroon at the Africa Cup of Nations, where he played five matches and regained confidence after a difficult season at Brighton. One of his standout performances came in Brighton’s 3-0 victory over Chelsea, when he won the ball from Robert Sanchez inside the penalty area and created a major chance for Jack Hinshelwood.

United’s interest has previously helped drive Baleba’s valuation sharply upward. Last summer, when his stock was at its highest, United were prepared to pay around £75 million, while Brighton sought more than £100 million. The latest negotiations could now deliver a deal at a significantly lower figure, although an agreement has not yet been formally confirmed.