Manchester United continues its midfield transformation under manager Michael Carrick, adding Carlos Baleba from Brighton & Hove Albion for a hefty fee of up to £70 million. The 22-year-old midfielder played a crucial role in helping Brighton qualify for the UEFA Conference League and is expected to enhance United's midfield as they chase their Champions League aspirations.

Baleba's strengths include strong tackling, ball-winning ability, and excellent dribbling, making him a valuable asset for United, especially after their disappointing loss to Hull City on opening day. While he struggled to convert good positions into assists last season, playing alongside dynamic teammates like Bruno Fernandes and Matheus Cunha may improve his contributions.

Despite scoring four goals and providing two assists in the 2024-25 season, questions remain about his passing consistency. Having transitioned from Lille to the Premier League and started in the Europa League, this move represents a significant step in his career.

United’s midfield depth is now bolstered by the addition of Baleba, alongside Mason Mount, Manuel Ugarte, and newcomers Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans. However, the large investment raises concerns about the distribution of playing time among these talents, especially when addressing other pressing squad needs.

In contrast, Brighton capitalizes on the transfer, profiting significantly from Baleba's development. With over €180 million generated from player sales, they are well-positioned to continue their success. Following a strong opening victory against Aston Villa, they maintain a robust midfield depth, suggesting a bright future.

Grades:

• Manchester United: C+
• Brighton: A