Manchester United approach Barcelona regarding Alejandro Balde transfer
Manchester United have reportedly made an approach for Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde. This development follows reports that United are nearing a deal for Carlos Baleba.
United’s manager, Michael Carrick, was reportedly keen to add a third midfielder to the squad this summer, especially after the departure of Casemiro. The club had previously signed Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa and Andrey Santos from Chelsea. Carrick was preparing for the 2026-27 campaign with his existing options until a breakthrough in talks with Brighton for Baleba.
Reports on Wednesday indicated that Manchester United were close to securing a deal for Cameroon international Baleba. If confirmed, Baleba would become Carrick’s third major signing of the summer. However, the club’s transfer activity may not be concluded.
United’s Left-Back Search
A new left-back has been a priority for Carrick for several months, aiming to provide cover and competition for Luke Shaw ahead of Manchester United’s return to the Champions League. The Red Devils had hoped to sign Lewis Hall, but Newcastle United has reportedly ruled out selling another first-team player before the transfer deadline.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano stated that Manchester United contacted Jorge Mendes, Balde’s agent, to understand his situation at Barcelona. Balde has made 168 appearances for Barcelona since graduating from their academy, contributing to three La Liga title wins. The 22-year-old has also earned seven caps for Spain, though none since 2023, and was not part of their World Cup-winning squad this summer. In the same year, Balde signed a new contract with Barcelona that runs until the summer of 2028, which included a buyout clause of €1 billion.
Romano noted that while Manchester United have shown interest, Balde maintains a strong relationship with Barcelona and is keen to extend his tenure with the Spanish champions. Balde is considered a ‘Barca boy’ and, in principle, prefers to stay unless Barcelona indicates otherwise. Romano mentioned that a conversation took place between Mendes and Manchester United to assess Balde’s situation.
Balde’s Stance on Barcelona Future
Balde has acknowledged the speculation surrounding his potential departure this summer but has stated his focus remains on his football. He told TV3 after the Joan Gamper Trophy win that he is feeling well. Balde mentioned that he is a quiet individual and, while aware of the media talk, believes he is performing well and needs to concentrate on his work.
Reports suggest that Barcelona has been considering the possibility of Balde leaving for some time. Barça head coach Hansi Flick reportedly has some doubts about the 22-year-old. Joao Cancelo reportedly surpassed Balde for the starting left-back position in the latter half of last season. Balde also missed early pre-season matches due to a fitness issue, during which academy prospect Jordi Pesquer made a positive impression.
With Cancelo reportedly returning to the club permanently, competition for places at left-back is expected to be intense. Despite this, Balde is reportedly happy at Barcelona, making a departure seem unlikely at present. In a July interview, Balde reiterated his commitment to Barcelona, stating, “Barcelona is my home. I’ve been at this club for 16 years, my whole life. I want to succeed here, and my mind is here.” He added that he is a Barcelona fan and believes he would not be better off anywhere else, indicating his desire to stay for many more years.
However, the situation could change in the final days of the summer transfer window if Manchester United makes a substantial offer and Barcelona decides they wish to part ways with Balde. Carrick’s Manchester United are scheduled to face newly-promoted Hull City in their Premier League opener on Saturday.
Source: metro.co.uk
As NewsUK's Senior Football Correspondent, Thomas Beckwith reports on the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side for readers across the country. He reported on three World Cups for a national news agency. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from Sheffield Hallam University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Thomas lives in Sheffield, where he watches lower-league football most weekends. “Football writing is about the decisions, not just the result.”
