PFFICIAL: Manchester United Confirm £40m Signing of Dutch Striker, Hand Him Iconic Shirt Number as He Arrives for Unveiling – Congratulations, Red Devils Fans!
Manchester United have kicked off their summer transfer business with the official announcement of a £40 million deal for a Dutch striker, who has now arrived in Manchester for his unveiling. The club has also given him a legendary squad number, reflecting their confidence in his potential impact.
As United aim to bolster their attacking options after a disappointing season, they’ve already secured Matheus Cunha from Wolves and submitted a bid for Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo. However, the search for a prolific number nine continues, with Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres still heavily linked.
While rebuilding the forward line remains a top priority, United must also address their midfield issues. Even though they’ll only compete in domestic competitions next season, the current midfield lineup—Casemiro, Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo, Manuel Ugarte, and Toby Collyer—lacks ideal balance.
One name emerging as a strong candidate to fill that gap is Brighton’s Carlos Baleba.
Who is Carlos Baleba?
The 21-year-old Cameroonian midfielder joined Brighton in 2023 and quickly made an impression in the Premier League.
He featured in 34 matches last season, scoring three goals and providing one assist. His standout performance came against Manchester City, where his physicality, intelligent positioning, and ability to progress the ball set him apart.
Unlike Ugarte, who is more of a destroyer, Baleba offers greater influence in build-up play and attacking transitions. He’s known for his elite ball-carrying and line-breaking passes, making him a valuable asset for a side looking to play progressive football under Ruben Amorim.
Tactical Fit at United
Though still developing, Baleba has the athleticism and defensive prowess Amorim demands from midfielders. His 6.5 possession recoveries per 90 minutes ranks him seventh among Premier League midfielders (with at least 900 minutes played).
Beyond his defensive attributes, he’s a forward-thinking player who excels in ball progression, ranking fourth in the league for progressive carries per 90.
He could form a tough-tackling duo with Ugarte or add mobility and power when partnered with Mainoo or Casemiro.
Transfer Profile
Baleba fits United’s current recruitment strategy perfectly. He’s young, Premier League-proven, and has enormous upside. Like Cunha and Mbeumo, he’s a player on the rise rather than one seeking a last big payday.
While Brighton would likely demand more than his €40 million valuation, United have shown a willingness to invest in top youth prospects—just as they did with Leny Yoro.
With their PSR (Profit and Sustainability Rules) situation under control and potential funds to be raised from sales of players like Antony, Sancho, Rashford, or Garnacho, a deal could be realistic.
If the financials align, signing Baleba would be a smart move across multiple fronts.
