Following a shock opening defeat, Michael Carrick finalizes a £150m engine room overhaul, securing Brighton’s physical powerhouse to anchor a new-look midfield and ignite United’s campaign.
Carlos Baleba was the third midfield signing of the Michael Carrick era at Manchester United, hopefully adding defensive cover to fill the shoes of Casemiro.
Baleba joins United this summer alongside Andrey Santos from Chelsea and Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa.
Carrick's Premier League campaign started on a sour note with a 2-0 loss to newly promoted Hull City on the opening weekend. A shock defeat after a successful second half of last season, when United confirmed a place in the Champions League with a third-place finish.
The signing of Carlos Baleba brings United's total midfield spending to just under £150 million as the need for depth in the squad is stronger than ever. Premier League-proven signings have evidently been the approach, with guaranteed quality already showing to be effective through United's attacking signings last summer, with Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo both impressing in their debut seasons at the club.
Michael Carrick has since spoken out about the Cameroonian arrival, what he brings to the squad and the conclusion of the midfield revival at Old Trafford.
Carrick Opens Up On What Baleba Brings
Upon the arrival of the 22-year-old, Carrick revealed what Baleba will add to the team and where this leaves United's midfield turnover.
"He brings a lot to the table," he told Sky Sports. "He has Premier League experience, great potential.
"He completes our midfield. We're very happy to have him."
Speculation over Baleba's move to Old Trafford stemmed from last season, with it being common knowledge that the midfielder was keen on the move. However, reluctance from Brighton put the transfer on hold for another 12 months.
Finally, Baleba's arrival should add the athleticism and physicality that the team lacked against Hull to get a stronger hold of the centre of the pitch in games.
Where Do Man Utd Strengthen Next?
With Baleba completing the midfield recruitment, fans have been screaming out for attention to turn towards the defensive depth, particularly a left-back to take over from an ageing Luke Shaw.
Aston Villa's Ian Maatsen has appeared as a potential recruit, with United already enquiring about the Dutchman's position. United's defence looked slow from the beginning against Hull, so adding youth to the back line could give the needed energy.
Elsewhere, the centre-back department has also seen some attention within the fanbase, with the balance of four competitions bound to stretch Carrick's defensive depth this season.
Whilst Baleba waits to return from injury, Carrick and his squad look to Ipswich Town to redeem their loss against Hull. Ipswich make the trip to Old Trafford on Sunday looking to replicate the work of the Tigers in another shock upset.
