Baleba completes £70m Man Utd move from Brighton

Baleba has completed a £70m move from Brighton to Manchester United. His 2025‑26 season was quieter than the previous campaign, yet his 2024‑25 statistics explain why United have monitored him for an extended period. He ranked 4th among Premier League midfielders for possessions won in the middle third (107) and interceptions (46), placed 5th for shot recoveries (197) and seventh for duels won (199). That defensive output was matched by his ability to advance possession himself. Baleba averaged 6.7 progressive carries per 90 minutes, with only three qualifying Premier League defensive midfielders registering more, and 2.9 of those carries covered at least 10 metres. His athleticism underpins this aspect of his game; he reached a top speed of 34.5km/h in 2024‑25, compared with 30.5km/h for Casemiro, and averaged 8.2 defensive actions per 90 minutes. He is not necessarily the midfielder United would rely on to dictate possession. Only 11.8% of his passes were classified as line‑breaking last season and 22.7% travelled forward—both figures below the average for central and defensive midfielders. Nevertheless, this profile may make him a complementary option rather than a direct substitute. Tielemans can provide more progressive distribution, while Baleba offers defensive security and the capacity to drive through midfield. Alongside Kobbie Mainoo, he could assume a larger share of ball‑winning and ground‑covering duties, and a partnership with Santos might allow Baleba greater freedom to operate box‑to‑box. This versatility is reflected in his positioning: he spent 88% of his minutes last season as a defensive midfielder and 12% in central midfield, indicating he can anchor the side or push forward depending on his teammates. United most often lined up in a 4‑2‑2‑2 shape under Carrick last season, a formation that accounted for 55.9% of their out‑of‑possession structures. Baleba’s dynamism could prove especially valuable in a system where central midfielders are required to cover large spaces and nullify counter‑attacks. An adaptation period may be necessary. Baleba is recovering from an ankle ligament injury sustained during pre‑season and will need time to regain match sharpness. United have also sought to extend spells of possession under Carrick, progressing through midfield with quick combinations. Baleba’s game is better suited to open contests, but his passing profile suggests he may require additional time to adjust to heightened build‑up responsibilities. His left foot and mobility should still make him a natural partner for players such as Tielemans or Bruno Fernandes. There is room for improvement at 22, not least after last season’s dip, but at his best Baleba combines defensive work with the acceleration and carrying power to turn a turnover into an attack within seconds.