Manchester United have completed the signing of midfielder Carlos Baleba after reaching an agreement with Brighton.
The Cameroon international joined the Seagulls as Moises Caicedo's successor in the 2023 summer transfer window, impressing from the off on the south coast with his glaring athleticism and elite ball-carrying ability.
United's interest in the 22-year-old dates back to the summer of 2025, and while they were reluctant to meet Brighton's asking price 12 months ago, they have finalised the the deal for a reduced £70m fee after the midfielder endured an underwhelming 2025/26 campaign.
Baleba will not be available for selection in the early stages of his Red Devils career however, with the player currently nursing an ankle injury sustained in Brighton's 4-3 victory over Strasbourg in pre-season earlier this month.
We've taken a look at the earliest possible date that Baleba could return to first-team action.
When is Carlos Baleba expected to return from injury?
Michael Carrick confirmed that Baleba will be ready to play after the international break. The United head coach revealed Baleba is set to return to full first-team training prior to the Red Devils' trip to Craven Cottage but won't be ready to feature then.
As such, barring any setbacks, Baleba is in line to make his debut on 10th October against Tottenham Hotspur.
How can an injured player pass their medical?
