Alejandro Balde has informed the club that he wants to stay – and thus rejects a transfer to Manchester United, who have lately been pushing for a transfer.
Manchester United are determined to sign a left-back before the transfer window closes. With Carlos Baleba’s arrival, the midfield is in place, and attention is now focused on bringing in a new left-back – who can compete with – and eventually replace – Luke Shaw.
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United’s top target is Lewis Hall at Newcastle, but the Magpies will not sell in this window. Therefore, the club has approached super agent Jorge Mendes regarding Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde.
According to ESPN, United’s ideal solution is a loan with an option – not an obligation – to buy. The plan is to sign Balde now, and then possibly go for Hall permanently next summer. If Balde strikes immediately, he could be signed directly – and thus make the Hall transfer superfluous.
Balde: “I want to stay in Barcelona”
However, luring Balde to Old Trafford has proved difficult. All sources and reports in recent days have emphasized that the 22-year-old prefers to stay at Barcelona.
Now Fabrizio Romano confirms that Balde himself has taken a clear stand.
On X, Romano writes:
“Understand that Alejandro Balde has informed Barcelona of his desire to STAY at the club and fight for a place. His intention is clear. The decision now lies with the club if they consider a sale. Only a big offer from a top club can change the situation until the deadline.”
Barcelona are willing to sell the left-back – but only if they receive an offer that is too good to refuse.
Flick confirms: Balde is in the squad
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has since confirmed that Balde has been named in the squad for Thursday’s LaLiga match against Athletic Bilbao.
“Alejandro Balde is part of the squad for tomorrow,” Flick said.
“I have spoken to him, and the most important thing is that he is fully committed to us. He is 22 years old and very young – he has great potential.
Thus, it is theoretically possible for Manchester United to make a deal with Barcelona. But if Balde refuses to negotiate personal terms with United, no club-to-club deal will lead to a transfer.
The alternative: Spanish 19-year-old on the radar
An alternative to both Hall and Balde on United’s radar is Jorge Salinas at Racing Santander. The 19-year-old has impressed greatly in Spain and could be a more realistic target in the final days of the window.
Balde has chosen – now United must turn to other options.
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