Carlos Baleba’s long-awaited Manchester United dream is finally a reality.

The Red Devils have completed the signing of the 22-year-old Cameroon international from Brighton & Hove Albion, ending months of speculation surrounding the powerful midfielder. Baleba has signed a five-year contract at Old Trafford, with United holding an option to extend the deal by another year.

United will pay an initial £65 million, with a further £5 million available in add-ons, taking the potential value of the deal to £70 million.

Baleba’s arrival represents another major piece of Michael Carrick’s midfield rebuild, following the additions of Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos.

The Cameroon star leaves Brighton after making 112 appearances, having developed into one of the Premier League’s most exciting young midfielders. His energy, physical strength, tackling and ability to carry the ball forward could give United a new dimension in the middle of the park.

There is, however, a short wait before fans sees him in action. Baleba is recovering from an ankle injury suffered during pre-season and could return around mid-September.

But the wait will only make his Old Trafford debut even more anticipated. After coming so close before, Carlos Baleba has finally made it to Manchester United.