Forget Alaba, Carlos Baleba solves United defence and midfield

Manchester United have secured Cameroon midfielder Carlos Baleba, a signing the club say is the answer to two Man Utd issues – a lack of defensive cover and a missing number‑six in midfield – after conceding six goals in their opening three Premier League games.

Defensive woes persist

United allowed fifty goals last season despite finishing third, and this campaign they have already let in six goals in their opening three Premier League matches, raising alarm.

Rumours linked United with free agents David Alaba and Sergio Ramos, but Ty Marshall of the Manchester Evening News said the club are not pursuing them. He added that both players are past their peak and do not fit the recruitment model introduced by INEOS at Old Trafford.

Baleba seen as midfield solution

Cameroon international Carlos Baleba, aged 22, arrives as the number‑six United have been seeking since Casemiro’s departure. Unlike Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans, Baleba offers the strength, power and defensive shielding that the Red Devils lack.

Director of football Jason Wilcox praised Baleba, calling him an elite midfielder with immense potential to develop further. He said, “We are delighted to further strengthen our midfield with the addition of another established senior international… Carlos’ determination to join Manchester United and his confidence that we will achieve our shared ambitions mean he is the perfect signing.”

Assistant manager Michael Carrick has been unable to call on Baleba due to a recent injury. He hopes the midfielder will be fit before the international break in twelve days, providing the defence with the protection it needs.

United’s schedule now includes a Champions League tie against Sabah and a Premier League clash with Manchester City at Old Trafford within three days. The added midfield depth could prove crucial as they juggle multiple competitions.

Via Reuters, By James Beavis AM GMT+1, Senior Editor at GIVEMESPORT, who graduated with a Sports Journalism degree from Southampton Solent University in 2012. He began his career at Shoot Magazine, moved to Football FanCast in 2016, and joined GMS in 2020, creating exclusive Premier League content for GiveMeSport Us and encouraging readers to Follow, Try and Give feedback.