Exclusive: Manchester United are targeting Leeds United for Carlos Baleba's long-awaited debut after moving from Brighton and Hove Albion this summer.
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Roundtable understands that Manchester United are targeting next month's fixture against Leeds United for Carlos Baleba's long-awaited debut.
The former Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder picked up an ankle ligament injury in pre-season for his former club and has yet to train with his new teammates since moving to Old Trafford, as he remains on an individual training plan.
United face Leeds at Elland Road on Sunday, 18 October, between two Champions League ties against Atletico Madrid and Como. Carrick's side also face Manchester City, Brighton, Fulham, and Tottenham Hotspur before the break.
Baleba completed his move to Manchester United for £65 million, plus an additional £5 million in add-ons, having been subject to interest from the Red Devils last summer.
He became the third midfield signing of the summer after Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans joined for £50 million and £35 million, respectively.
What Carlos Baleba will bring to Man Utd
While Kobbie Mainoo and Youri Tielemans have begun to develop a partnership in recent matches, Baleba adds a new dynamic to Manchester United's midfield.
Unlike the other midfielders at the club, Baleba specialises in ground coverage without the ball, which United have been lacking for some time.
He can also be an asset to Michael Carrick's side in possession. Baleba often progresses play through his carrying ability, rather than a long pass or a pass through the lines, which Tielemans or Mainoo may prefer.
The Cameroonian did not have his best season in 2025/26, but United maintained their interest and reignited their pursuit after signing Tielemans and Santos.
Tielemans and Mainoo have been the first-choice pairing for the first games of the season – after Santos was dropped for Ipswich Town – and have impressed, despite some concerns that they would struggle without the ball.
Baleba will not give fans those same concerns, but he could face early scrutiny if he struggles to improve on his form from last term.
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Baleba "cannot wait" to work with Michael Carrick
He was unveiled in front of the Stretford End before United's first home game of the season against Ipswich Town. Fans were overjoyed and delighted to see their new man, and he seems to be the same.
In all of the signing interviews, press releases, and quotes on social media, Baleba appears to be very happy to finally be at Old Trafford.
While we are still waiting for his debut, it seems Baleba will do all he can to prove he can be the signing Manchester United fans want him to be.
"I cannot wait to work with Michael Carrick," Baleba said after he signed for United. "His experience and knowledge of the game make him the perfect coach to help me to reach the highest level.
“The ambition of everyone at the club is extremely clear, the future is hugely exciting, and I am determined to play my part in delivering the success that we are capable of together."