“Alejandro Balde could be the solution to the left-back problem”
Manchester United’s frustration with Newcastle’s reluctance to sell Lewis Hall has made Michael Carrick turn his attention to Barcelona – and 22-year-old Alejandro Balde. And according to analyses, he can be both better and cheaper than Hall.
Barcelona’s decision to sign João Cancelo on a three-year contract has immediately aroused interest from United. According to Sport , the Premier League giants have already been in contact with Baldes’ agent, Jorge Mendes, to assess the player’s situation.
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United have been working all summer to find a left-back who can give Luke Shaw competition. Hall has been the main target – but Newcastle have repeatedly rejected inquiries, despite selling key players such as Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimarães.
Now Balde may be the solution.
Balde – better and cheaper than Hall
Balde’s situation at Barcelona has changed dramatically after Cancelo arrived on a free transfer. The Portuguese played in front of Balde for much of the second half of last season, and the question is how much playing time the 22-year-old will get in the future.
Barcelona can see this as an opportunity to sell. With an estimated transfer value (ETV) of €48 million, the Catalans could get good money for the youngster – money they need to sign a new striker.
For United, Balde could be a cheaper option than Hall. And according to SciSports’ algorithm – based on hundreds of data points – the Spaniard is actually a stronger player than the Newcastle full-back.
“Left-back is almost guaranteed”
Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano says it is “almost guaranteed” that United will sign a left-back before the window closes. First, however, the Carlos Baleba deal from Brighton must be completed.
“The expectation is that Carlos Baleba will be United’s next signing. But they are not finished in the market. Left-back is the next priority – and I would say it’s almost guaranteed that they will pick one up,” Romano said.
“In addition, it could be a striker, if Joshua Zirkzee leaves the club.
With Balde on their radar – and with a transfer fee that could be lower than Hall – United may soon have found the solution they have been looking for all summer.
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