Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde in action, while Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi watches from a circular inset.
Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde in action, while Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi watches from a circular inset.
The left side of the defence has been a problem position for the Red Devils for several months now, but they are still no closer to securing a solution.
The Manchester giants are hunting for a long-term successor to Luke Shaw, who could slowly take up the mantle as the starter in that position.
They were hugely keen to strike a deal for Balde in the summer, but the 23-year-old ultimately opted to stay put at the Camp Nou.
United are prepared to make a move for him once again this winter, but it will not be straightforward for them to do the deal.
Tottenham are also now waiting in the wings for Balde, which surely leaves no choice for United but to step up their pursuit.
Alejandro Balde increasingly likely to move
Football Insider revealed at the end of September that Balde's chances of a move away from Barcelona this winter are growing increasingly strong due to his lack of football.
The youngster has played just 100 minutes of La Liga action so far this season, and is growing frustrated over his limited involvement.
According to a recent report from Sport, Tottenham are now developing an admiration for the starlet, who progressed through Barcelona's famous La Masia academy.
However, it is also noted that their chances of making a move this winter could potentially hinge on possible exits from elsewhere in their squad.
Nevertheless, that development must surely be enough to scare United into rapid action once the January window opens.
They know that Balde would be an ideal fit for their left-back role, and simply cannot risk missing out on him to a Premier League rival.
How much would Balde cost?
Barcelona were holding out for a fee of £30million to sanction Balde's exit in the summer, but his lack of football has changed things since then.
The defender is no longer seen as a key part of Hansi Flick's plans, and his contract situation is beginning to cause issues.
Balde's deal in Spain is due to expire in the summer of 2028, meaning Barcelona are running out of time to be able to cash in on their homegrown star.
With that in mind, it is increasingly likely that he may be available for less than his previous £30m valuation this winter, which further plays into United's hands.