(Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Manchester United have approached Alejandro Balde’s representatives this week to gauge whether a deal would be feasible.
That’s according to Fabrizio Romano, who adds that a left-back is the ‘next priority’ for INEOS after they sign a third midfielder.
United targeting Balde after Carlos Baleba bid
There are hopes that a midfield addition may be completed in the coming days, as the Red Devils formally ignited their pursuit of Carlos Baleba yesterday by submitting a £65 million bid.
The proposal, which would see them shell out £60m upfront, is said to be below Brighton and Hove Albion’s valuation, but there is optimism an agreement can be reached – especially because Baleba himself is so keen on the move.
🚨 EXCLUSIVE: Manchester United closing in on deal to sign Carlos Baleba from Brighton & Hove Albion. #MUFC offer for 22yo Cameroon midfielder ~£60+5m; below #BHAFC valuation but amicable talks continue as all parties work to reach agreement @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/WmP1bD2JuT — David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) August 19, 2026
United have been linked with a handful of full-backs since the beginning of the summer, with INEOS seemingly conceding that Luke Shaw is unable to play two games a week.
Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui can deputise in the position, but you can understand Michael Carrick preferring that an out-and-out left-back is added to his ranks.
Balde uninterested in summer switch
Balde is, however, ‘happy’ at the Camp Nou.
He’s on the back of being crowned a La Liga champion, having made 28 appearances (21 from the off) in their title-winning campaign.
In 2023, Alejandro Balde said the English player he wants on his team was Marcus Rashford 😆 pic.twitter.com/Q1Rj2mo4T2 — ESPN UK (@ESPNUK) May 12, 2026
The 22-year-old would’ve felt as though he deserved a spot in Spain’s World Cup squad, but Luis de la Fuente opted against bringing the youngster to the tournament, which was also the case for the 2024 Euros.
Alejandro Balde takes it past 4 🥵#UCL pic.twitter.com/23gNTXqAoH — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) March 11, 2025
Having been on the Blaugrana’s books since he was just eight years old, you can see why Balde is content with his situation and not seeking an exit anytime soon.
He plays an integral role in Hansi Flick’s squad, and it’s evident that the current crop of Barcelona players are capable of claiming silverware season after season while their arch-rivals, Real Madrid, look to rebuild following back-to-back trophyless campaigns.
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