Manchester United are making a move to sign Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde before the transfer window shuts next week, according to Spanish outlet AS.
The Red Devils suffered a damaging start to their Premier League campaign, falling to a 2-0 defeat against Hull City at the MKM Stadium on the opening day.
United were widely expected to overcome the Tigers comfortably, but their performance was disjointed and unconvincing from the first whistle.
The defensive display drew particular criticism, and the club now appears determined to strengthen that area of the pitch before the deadline arrives.
Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo reports that Balde hopes to remain at the Catalan club but could be open to leaving if Barcelona themselves push him towards the exit door.
His agent, Jorge Mendes, has reportedly received several offers for the 22-year-old, with one of those approaches coming directly from Manchester United.
Luke Shaw currently holds the starting spot at left-back for United, but the 31-year-old has a well-documented injury history across his 12 years at the club.
Patrick Dorgu has also struggled in the position, appearing more effective as a left-sided winger since the turn of the year, raising questions about defensive cover in that area.
Balde produced impressive numbers in La Liga last season, completing 92% of his passes and winning almost 60% of his overall duels for Barcelona.
However, fitness concerns surround the Spanish international, as he missed 10 matches last term due to a couple of separate injury setbacks, drawing comparisons with Shaw in that regard.
Barcelona are seeking a fee in the region of £34 million to £39 million for their academy product, according to Sport, though United will likely push for a lower figure given those fitness question marks.
A deal concluded somewhere in the £25 million to £30 million range would represent strong business for United, potentially giving the club a high-quality competitor at left-back for the season ahead.