Manchester United have completed the signing of the Cameroon international from Brighton
Carlos Baleba says he can’t wait to work with Manchester United boss Michael Carrick after completing a £70m move to Old Trafford from Brighton.
Baleba has signed a five-year contract at Old Trafford, with the club holding the option to extend his stay for a another season.
Michael Carrick’s side have been repeatedly linked with a move for the 22-year-old midfielder, having explored a move last summer.
However, they’ve finally got their man and the successor to Casemiro, after the Brazilian midfielder departed the club at the end of his contract earlier this summer.
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Speaking after signing for United, Baleba said: “It is an incredible feeling to join the club of my dreams. Playing at Old Trafford is always special but the opportunity to do so as a Manchester United player will be a real honour.
“I cannot wait to work with Michael Carrick; his experience and knowledge of the game make him the perfect coach to help me to reach the highest level.
“The ambition of everyone at the club is extremely clear, the future is hugely exciting, and I am determined to play my part in delivering the success that we are capable of together.”
Jason Wilcox, director of football at United, said: “Carlos is an elite midfielder with immense potential to develop further. He brings a unique combination of qualities that will really complement our squad.
“We are delighted to further strengthen our midfield with the addition of another established senior international with a proven track record of performing in the Premier League.
“Carlos’ determination to join Manchester United and his confidence that we will achieve our shared ambitions mean that he is the perfect signing as we continue to build a dynamic and entertaining team ready to compete across multiple competitions.”
Baleba is the latest midfielder through the door after Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos made the move to Old Trafford earlier this summer, bolstering Carrick’s squad ahead of a return to the Champions League.
However, the defeat to Hull City on the opening day of the season only highlighted that United needed more strength in that area of the pitch and have finally signed Baleba.
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