Can Carlos Baleba Finally Become the Missing Piece in Manchester United’s Midfield?

Manchester United are closing in on Carlos Baleba. But could the Brighton midfielder finally give Michael Carrick the balance and energy his midfield has been missing?

Manchester United have spent much of the summer rebuilding their midfield.

Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos have already arrived, but Carlos Baleba could be the signing that changes the entire equation.

United have made a bid worth around £65 million, with negotiations advancing rapidly. Baleba has reportedly agreed personal terms and is expected to undergo a medical if the deal is completed.

For a club that has struggled to control matches from midfield, this could be one of the most important signings of Michael Carrick's first summer in charge.

Why Baleba?

At 22, Baleba already has significant Premier League experience with Brighton.

What makes him particularly attractive is his combination of physicality, ball-carrying ability and defensive work.

He can cover ground quickly, win possession and carry the ball through midfield rather than simply recycling it backwards.

That could give United something they have often lacked: a midfielder capable of doing the dirty work while still helping the team progress up the pitch.

The Casemiro problem

United's midfield has been crying out for a long-term solution at the defensive end.

With Casemiro now gone, the need for a player capable of protecting the defence and covering large areas has become even greater.

Baleba could fill that role.

He is not simply a traditional holding midfielder, though. His athleticism allows him to press, recover possession and drive forward when space opens up.

That versatility could be crucial in Carrick's system.

But Baleba is not a guaranteed solution

There is a reason Brighton's valuation has fallen from the enormous figure attached to Baleba previously.

His 2025/26 campaign was inconsistent, and he is currently recovering from an ankle injury.

United therefore cannot expect him to arrive and immediately transform everything.

There will be an adaptation period.

And at 22, Baleba still has plenty to learn.

Where would he fit?

The exciting possibility is a midfield built around different strengths.

Baleba could provide the defensive security and athleticism, while Tielemans offers composure and progressive passing. Andrey Santos adds another physically strong option, with Kobbie Mainoo providing technical quality and versatility.

That gives Carrick considerably more flexibility.

Instead of relying on one midfielder to do everything, United could finally have a midfield where each player has a clearly defined responsibility.

The real test

The biggest question is not whether Baleba has the talent.

He clearly does.

The question is whether he can become consistent enough to control Premier League matches.

United need more than tackles and powerful runs.

They need someone who can recognise danger before it develops, receive the ball under pressure and make the right decision when the game becomes chaotic.

If Baleba develops those qualities, his ceiling is extremely high.

Sevens Sports Arena Verdict

Carlos Baleba could be the missing piece — but calling him the complete solution would be premature.

United are rebuilding their midfield piece by piece, and Baleba's physicality, defensive ability and Premier League experience make him a particularly intriguing addition.

If Carrick can develop his decision-making and consistency, United may finally have the dynamic No.6 they have been searching for.

The ingredients are there. Now Baleba has to prove he can put them together at Old Trafford.