Manchester United’s pursuit of a new left-back has been dealt a significant blow after Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde made clear his intention to stay at the Catalan club.
United had reportedly held talks with super agent Jorge Mendes regarding a potential move for Balde, as the club searched for cover for Luke Shaw.
Concerns over Shaw’s ability to cope across four competitions intensified following Tyrell Malacia’s departure from Old Trafford this summer.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Balde has now communicated directly to Barcelona that he wishes to remain and fight for his place in the squad.
Romano stated: “Understand Alejandro Balde has informed Barcelona about his desire to STAY at the club and compete for a spot.”
He added: “His intention is clear; decision up to the club after exploring sale. Only a big proposal from a top club can change the scenario from now to deadline day.”
With Balde effectively off the table, United must now turn their attention to alternatives, and journalist Ben Jacobs has revealed three options have been presented to the club.
Speaking to Football FanCast, Jacobs confirmed: “Nothing has advanced. They’ve been offered Jorge Salinas and David Raum as options at left back.”
Jacobs also addressed the possibility of signing Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly, noting the complexities surrounding a potential deal for the teenager.
“From Manchester United’s perspective, they were offered the player,” Jacobs explained, pointing out the question of whether Lewis-Skelly is viewed primarily as a midfielder or a left-back.
Jacobs noted that Lewis-Skelly has thrived for Arsenal in central midfield, which could complicate United’s interest given they have already signed Carlos Baleba.
He added: “Manchester United’s valuation of Lewis-Skelly is lower than Arsenal’s, so the combination of those factors is why nothing has progressed.”
Mikel Arteta has publicly stated he is “100% sure” Lewis-Skelly will remain at Arsenal, making that particular avenue extremely difficult to pursue.
Spanish teenager Salinas, just 19 years old, impressed at Racing de Santander in La Liga 2, registering seven assists in 33 league appearances and carrying a £13.7 million release clause.
The 2026/27 campaign marks Salinas’ first in La Liga, which raises questions about whether he is ready for the demands of playing at Old Trafford under Michael Carrick.
RB Leipzig’s David Raum represents a more experienced option, with the 28-year-old contributing three goals and seven assists across 30 Bundesliga matches last season.
Lewis-Skelly, despite being the same age as Salinas, brings top-level experience having made 36 appearances for Arsenal in all competitions as the Gunners lifted the Premier League title.
With the transfer deadline approaching, United appear faced with a straight choice between Raum’s proven experience and Salinas’ raw potential to solve their left-back problem.