Manchester United Make Last-Minute Bid for Barcelona's Alejandro Balde

Manchester United Chase Barcelona Left-Back Alejandro Balde on Deadline Day

Manchester United are pushing hard to sign Alejandro Balde from Barcelona before the summer transfer window closes. The club is working late to persuade the Spanish defender to join Old Trafford after already investing heavily this summer.

Urgent Defensive Reinforcement

The Red Devils have reignited their interest in Balde, with reports from Gerard Romero’s Jijantes FC revealing a fresh approach to secure the left-back in a last-minute effort. Although Michael Carrick has overseen a £150m midfield overhaul bringing in Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans, and Carlos Baleba, strengthening at left-back remains a priority as the deadline nears.

Earlier attempts to acquire Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall hit a wall, as the Magpies refused to part ways with the England youth international. This forced United to explore other defensive options urgently.

Negotiations and Squad Situation

United’s interest in Balde isn’t new. Talks took place late August between the club and Balde’s agent Jorge Mendes. Initially, it seemed Balde would stay at Barcelona to compete under coach Hansi Flick, but his position has become uncertain.

Balde has yet to play competitively this season despite being named in the squad against Rayo Vallecano. Meanwhile, 19-year-old Xabi Espart has started all three La Liga matches, complicating Balde’s chances. Joao Cancelo’s arrival on a free transfer also adds depth to Barcelona’s full-back options, further limiting Balde's game time.

Transfer Challenges and Financial Demands

One major hurdle is the deal structure. United prefers a loan to cover immediate needs, but Barcelona wants a permanent sale to help ease their financial issues. They value Balde at around £34 million and are holding firm on a full transfer rather than a temporary move.

Other Targets Considered and Ruled Out

While searching for alternatives, United dismissed interest in Racing Santander’s Jorge Salinas despite his modest £13 million release clause. Racing has already signed Aaron Martin from Genoa to replace Salinas, and United remains focused on securing Balde.

• Player: Alejandro Balde
• Current Club: Barcelona
• Position: Left-back
• Valuation: £34 million
• Preferred Transfer Type (United): Loan
• Preferred Transfer Type (Barcelona): Permanent sale
• Other targets ruled out: Jorge Salinas (£13m release clause)
• Recent arrivals at Manchester United: Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans, Carlos Baleba