A major detail has surfaced concerning Carlos Baleba’s imminent transfer to Manchester United.
Agreement close
On Wednesday, David Ornstein of The Athletic dropped the news that United are advancing in talks with Brighton & Hove Albion for Baleba.
United have been long admirers of Baleba and made an unsuccessful attempt to sign him last summer. The Red Devils made contact with both his camp and the Seagulls but eventually opted out after becoming aware of his hefty price tag.
Despite his dwindling form last season, United maintained their interest in the Senegal international.
Having already secured the signatures of Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans from Chelsea and Aston Villa respectively, coupled with Baleba’s injury, it looked like there was little chance of him sealing a dream switch to Old Trafford.
But it’s understood that an agreement is close. Both United and Brighton are eager to strike a compromise.
According to Foot Mercato, Lille are set to receive a portion of the fee that United will pay Brighton for the 22-year-old midfielder.
Contract detail
Baleba first arrived in Europe when Lille signed him in 2022. It’s from Lille that Brighton snapped him up, parting with €30m to add him to their ranks.
Foot Mercato point out that Lille inserted a 15% – 20%Â sell-on clause in the deal to offload Baleba to Brighton.
If the €70m move to United goes through, Brighton will make a €40m profit. Lille will get roughly €6m-€8m of that.
Much like United fans, Lille will undoubtedly be eager to see this deal get over the line as soon as possible. Simon Jones of the Daily Mail says that Baleba will put pen to paper on a five-year deal.
Meanwhile, United open their Premier League season this weekend when they go away to Premier League newcomers Hull City.
The Peoples Person Reliability Assessment
Overall credibility: 8/10
Why?
âś… Reported by an outlet that is reliable for French transfer news.
âś… It’s already been confirmed that United and Brighton are advancing in talks for Baleba.
⚠️ The final sum has yet to be confirmed.
TPP view
We believe Lille do indeed have a provision to benefit from Baleba’s move to United and it’s only a matter of time before it’s realised.
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