Manchester United have stepped up their transfer activity after a difficult start to the new Premier League season.
Michael Carrick’s side suffered a 2-0 defeat against newly promoted Hull City on Saturday. United controlled possession but struggled to create enough danger in attack.
The result increased the pressure on Carrick as he continues to reshape his squad. United have already spent heavily this summer.
They signed Andrey Santos from Chelsea for £48 million and Youri Tielemans for £35 million.
They have also agreed a £70 million deal with Brighton for Carlos Baleba. The Cameroon international will strengthen a midfield that lost Casemiro this summer.
However, Carrick also wants more competition at left-back. United initially identified Newcastle United defender Lewis Hall as a leading option. His rising valuation has forced the club to explore alternatives.
That search has led them to Barcelona star Alejandro Balde. United have already enquired about the 22-year-old’s availability.
Balde has made more than 150 appearances for Barcelona but has lost his status as a guaranteed starter under Hansi Flick. The latest developments could now give United an opportunity.
Flick left Balde out of Barcelona’s squad for Sunday’s 5-0 victory over Elche. However, the Barcelona manager has not told the defender to leave.
Spanish outlet SPORT reports that Barcelona could now consider selling Balde for around €45m (£38m). That represents a significant shift from their position earlier in the transfer window.
Balde also has two years remaining on his Barcelona contract. Aston Villa and Benfica have shown interest, while Benfica have already seen an approach rejected because of the proposed fee.
United therefore face competition if they decide to move. Luke Shaw’s performance against Hull could add urgency to their search.
The experienced defender struggled as United endured a disappointing opening day. Myles Lewis-Skelly also remains among the alternatives under consideration.
With the September 1 deadline approaching, Manchester United must now decide whether to turn their interest in Balde into a concrete move.
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