Brighton sign Caicedo replacement as Carlos joins from Lille

Brighton have confirmed the signing of Carlos Baleba from Lille.

The 19-year-old will join the Seagulls on a contract until June 2028, to fill the role of Moises Caicedo after his move to Chelsea.

Despite inexperience, Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi rates the youngster very highly.

Speaking to the club website, he said: "Carlos is a very good player. 

"He's very young but a specific player for our style. He will be the future of the club."

Baleba joined Lille in January 2022, going on to make 19 league appearances and help them to a fifth-place finish in Ligue 1 last season.

He made a further two appearances for Paulo Fonseca's side in the 2023-24 campaign before completing a move to the Amex, where Brighton fans will hope the 19-year-old can fill Caicedo's boots.

Technical director David Weir added: "We are really happy to be able to bring Carlos to the club. 

"He's 19 and will need some time to get used to his new surroundings, our culture and the language; he will get all the support he needs to make that transition and we’re looking forward to seeing him in action."

Baleba follows Joao Pedro, James Milner, Mahmoud Dahoud, Bart Verbruggen, Igor Julio and Jacob Slater in what has been a busy summer for De Zerbi's side.

Brighton welcome Newcastle in their next Premier League outing on Saturday as they look to return to winning ways after a crushing 3-1 defeat to David Moyes' West Ham.