Alejandro Balde Set to Leave Barcelona as Manchester United Opens Transfer Talks
Manchester United Pursues Alejandro Balde Amid Defensive Struggles
Following a disappointing start in the Premier League, Manchester United is intensifying efforts to strengthen their defense. Their attention has turned to Alejandro Balde, the Barcelona left-back, who appears ready for a new challenge away from the Spotify Camp Nou.
Defensive Reinforcements on United’s Radar
Despite a tough 2-0 loss to Hull City in their opening Premier League match, the Red Devils are not slowing down their summer recruitment. While they prepare to finalize a £70 million signing of Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, urgent focus is on shoring up the left-back position. The defensive mishaps, highlighted by a costly error from veteran Luke Shaw at MKM Stadium, reveal the need for further changes in Michael Carrick’s squad.
Initially, Lewis Hall of Newcastle was the main target to fix United's defensive issues. However, with Newcastle unwilling to part ways with the former Chelsea player, United had to explore other options. This led them to Catalonia, where Balde has emerged as a promising candidate, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Balde Decides to Exit Barcelona
Reports from Jijantes suggest that Alejandro Balde has chosen to end his tenure at Barcelona. The La Masia graduate, who played a significant role in the club’s recent title win, seems uncertain about his future under coach Hansi Flick. Although Balde started 21 league games last season, injuries to his hamstring and muscles sidelined him for 10 matches.
With Joao Cancelo returning to Barcelona on a free transfer for his third spell, competition for the left-back spot has become tougher. Balde’s agent, Jorge Mendes, is actively pushing for a transfer, with initial talks already underway between the agent and Manchester United.
Coach Flick Addresses Balde’s Future
"He’s a player of immense quality, and it’s important to know if he’s confident he can compete in his position. That’s what I want to see from all my players. Every day I observe what they do, their level, whether they demonstrate that they’re at the level to play." — Hansi Flick
The Barcelona head coach stressed the importance of full commitment from every player during this transitional phase. He added, "We have to play as a team; only then will we achieve success. I need everyone to be one hundred percent." Flick did not dismiss the possibility of more departures before the transfer window closes, highlighting the ongoing structural changes within the club.
"We’re making a lot of changes within the club, so we may have to wait until the transfer window closes. When you decide to bring in new players, you also have to consider how to strengthen the team. The situation has been made very clear to the players, and now we must wait until the end of the market to see what happens." — Hansi Flick
Upcoming Fixtures
- 27 Aug 2026, 21:00: Barcelona vs Athletic Bilbao (LaLiga)
- 30 Aug 2026, 17:30: Manchester United vs Ipswich Town (Premier League)
