Manchester United's Alejandro Balde pursuit advances as Barcelona left-back weighs exit

Manchester United's search for a new left-back has taken a significant step forward, with Barcelona's Alejandro Balde reportedly open to leaving the Camp Nou before the summer transfer window closes. The 22-year-old was left out of Barcelona's matchday squad for their La Liga opener against Elche, a decision that has fueled speculation about his future.

Multiple reports indicate that Balde has given his representative, Jorge Mendes, the go-ahead to find him a new club. The Daily Star reported that Balde has instructed Mendes to secure a move, while the Manchester Evening News cited sources saying the defender has asked his agent to negotiate an exit. However, the picture is not entirely consistent: Fabrizio Romano, speaking on his YouTube show, said Balde is happy at Barcelona and not pushing to leave, but feels the club is pushing him out. TEAMtalk quoted Romano as saying, "Balde feels Barcelona are trying to find a solution for him, which is different from the story saying Balde is pushing to leave Barcelona. He has not. He has a feeling the club is pushing him out."

According to SPORT, Balde has given the green light to Mendes to negotiate his departure, with Manchester United understood to be the destination that excites the player the most. Yardbarker reported that Balde has told his agent to find a new club, with interest from England, Portugal, and Italy.

The backdrop: United's need and Barcelona's stance

United's urgency stems from their opening-day 2-0 defeat to newly-promoted Hull City, with goals from Nobel Mendy and Semi Ajayi. The loss exposed defensive frailties, particularly on the left flank, where Luke Shaw struggled. Michael Carrick expressed disappointment but vowed improvement, saying, "It's just one game, we're disappointed we haven't won. It's not more than that, it's not less than that. We've got to soak it up and come back stronger."

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has been guarded about Balde's situation, refusing to rule out an exit. He told reporters it was "a difficult question" when asked whether Balde could leave, describing him as "a player of immense quality." Flick also revealed he spoke with Balde, saying, "I told him that I think he's not here at 100%. Clear your mind and then we'll talk." He added that he did not tell Balde to leave, but that the defender needs to be fully committed.

Barcelona's stance appears conditional on a suitable offer. Reports suggest the club is open to selling for around £38m (€45m), though other estimates range from €40m to €50m. SPORT reported that Barcelona are seeking a fee in that range, while the Daily Star cited a similar figure. Barcelona are reportedly looking to raise funds for a new striker, with Joao Cancelo's permanent arrival adding further competition on the left flank. The emergence of young defender Xavi Espart has also been cited as a factor.

Competition and the Hall factor

United's primary left-back target has been Newcastle United's Lewis Hall, but the Magpies have made clear he is not for sale. TEAMtalk reported that Newcastle would only sanction a departure for a positional record fee exceeding Lucas Hernandez's £68m move, a price United are reluctant to meet. The Daily Star noted that Hall's mooted £70m fee may put off United.

With Hall off the table, United have turned to Balde, but they face competition. Aston Villa and Benfica have both been credited with interest, according to multiple outlets. Villa can offer Champions League football and Unai Emery's reputation, though their 4-0 defeat to Brighton was a setback. United can offer a higher weekly wage, while Benfica are considered a financial outsider.

The player's perspective

Balde's own intentions remain a subject of debate. According to Jijantes FC, the defender has decided he wants to leave Barcelona before the end of the window. However, Mundo Deportivo reported that Balde will keep fighting for a starting spot, suggesting he may not be eager to depart. Yardbarker noted that Balde is not giving up and will compete for his place.

Balde's history with United is not new: in a 2020 TikTok Q&A, he named United when asked for a club other than Barcelona. The Daily Star and talksport.com both highlighted this connection, though it is unclear how much weight it carries now.

United's broader transfer activity

United have been active in the midfield this summer. They have agreed a £70m deal for Brighton's Carlos Baleba, with an initial £65m plus £5m in add-ons, according to the Daily Star. The Cameroon international has four goals in 112 Brighton appearances and 16 caps. United also signed Youri Tielemans for £35m and Andrey Santos for £52m, as reported by the Manchester Evening News and Sports Mole.

Carrick has said United want and need more reinforcements, and left-back is a priority. With the transfer window closing on September 1, the coming days will be crucial. Balde, who has made 168 appearances for Barcelona with three goals and 21 assists, would provide competition for Shaw, who is 31 and in the final year of his contract. United must also consider Balde's injury record, which includes a tendon rupture and muscle problems.

Perspectives

Barcelona: Open to sale but not forcing exit

Barcelona are reportedly willing to sell Balde if a suitable offer arrives, but they are not actively pushing him out. Manager Hansi Flick has stated that he wants fully committed players, but has not demanded Balde leave. The club faces a need to raise funds and has added competition in the form of Cancelo, which could facilitate a move.

Alejandro Balde: Ambivalent about leaving

Balde is reportedly happy at Barcelona and not asking to go, but he feels the club is pushing him out and is open to a move if the right offer comes. He has given his agent the go-ahead to find a new club, with Manchester United emerging as a preferred destination, though he is also said to be willing to fight for his place.

Manchester United: Seeking a left-back solution

United need a left-back to cover for Luke Shaw, who is aging and has fitness concerns. After failing to land Lewis Hall, they have turned to Balde as a cost-effective alternative. They can offer Champions League football and a competitive wage, but must convince the player and meet Barcelona's asking price.