Man Utd AGREE Carlos Baleba transfer just hours before first game of new season as they finally land Brighton star

MANCHESTER UNITED are set to seal a £70million move for Carlos Baleba after striking a deal with Brighton. The midfielder, 22, has long been linked with Old Trafford and the Red Devils have finally got their man. Manchester United have agreed a deal to sign Brighton star Carlos Baleba Credit: Getty Michael Carrick has been looking to add more depth to his midfield Credit: Alamy The Red Devils saw a £65million bid rejected by Brighton but have now finally agreed a fee. United will pay a total page of £65m plus £5m in add-ons. Sign up for the Man United newsletter Thank you! It ends a long-running transfer saga after United’s failure to sign the player last summer, when Brighton were said to be quoting an eye-watering £120m. The discounted deal means United have managed to save themselves £50m on Brighton’s initial price. Baleba went on to suffer an indifferent for the Seagulls after his failed move. The Cameroon international started just 23 times in the Prem but wasn’t at his best and failed to score or assist. United boss Michael Carrick has been looking to add depth to his midfield in his first full season in charge. He has already seen veteran midfielder Casemiro depart for Inter Miami and Baleba is a natural successor. Most read in Sport BEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UK Baleba will battle for a place in United’s midfield alongside the likes of Bruno Fernandes Credit: AFP Baleba will challenge for a place along with fellow new midfielders Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans. Kobbie Mainoo, Manuel Ugarte and Mason Mount will also be his competition, with captain Bruno Fernandes a shoo-in for selections. But there have been some suggestions he could fill in at left-back if needed, having previously played in that position. United have also signed keeper Karl Darlow as well as youngsters Kit Margetson, Cristian Orozco and Tynan Thompson. Baleba won’t be ready in time for United’s first game of the season away at Hull City on Saturday. But his first game could be next week’s home clash against newly-promoted Ipswich at Old Trafford. Comment now