Manchester United are actively pursuing a new left-back signing, with Alejandro Balde of Barcelona emerging as a key transfer target for the club.
Respected Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that talks have already taken place between United and the camp of the 22-year-old Barcelona defender.
Romano wrote on X: “Manchester United keep looking for new left back, next priority after Baleba deal. There have been calls with Alejandro Balde’s camp over last days to understand if exit is possible and conditions. Balde, happy at Barcelona.”
The development confirms that securing a left-back is United’s primary focus once the signing of Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba is finalised.
Left-back has long been identified as a position requiring significant reinforcement, with Luke Shaw currently the only senior option available to the club.
Harry Amass was considered a possible solution, but the club has determined he is not yet ready for senior football and could potentially sell him this summer.
Manchester United had initially focused their attention on Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall, but Newcastle’s demands of around £70 million effectively ended any prospect of a deal.
That world-record asking price for a left-back forced United to broaden their search considerably, with other names including Antonee Robinson and Jorge Salinas entering the frame.
Balde has firmly established himself as Barcelona’s first-choice left-back over the past two seasons and is widely regarded as one of Europe’s most exciting young defenders.
Despite being just 22 years old, Balde has already accumulated 168 senior appearances for Barcelona since making his debut in the 2021/22 season, a remarkable milestone at his age.
A significant indicator of a possible departure came when Barcelona left Balde out of their squad for the season opener against Elche, a move reported by AS as another step towards a Premier League transfer.
AS specifically named Manchester United as one of the clubs interested, adding credibility to Romano’s report and suggesting genuine momentum behind a potential deal.
The major obstacle remains Balde’s own contentment in Catalonia, with Romano clearly noting that the defender is happy at Barcelona and may not push for an exit.
United’s need for left-back cover is pressing, and the club will be eager to resolve this area of the squad before the summer transfer window closes.