Fabrizio Romano has indicated that Manchester United could have a genuine opportunity to sign Alejandro Balde when the January transfer window opens.
The 22-year-old Barcelona left-back has played zero minutes so far this season, intensifying speculation about a potential departure from Camp Nou in the winter.
Romano previously reported that Manchester United held talks with super agent Jorge Mendes over a possible deal for Balde during the summer transfer window.
United ultimately decided against pursuing a move at that stage due to concerns over the transfer fee and the wages a deal would require.
The club were only interested in securing Balde on loan, potentially with a buy-option clause, rather than committing to an immediate permanent transfer.
Barcelona, however, were unwilling to sanction a loan arrangement and insisted on a full permanent sale, which meant negotiations stalled before they could develop further.
Romano has now highlighted that Balde’s lack of playing time could change the equation, stating that “we have to see how the next three, four months will go because Balde obviously wants to play football.”
The respected transfer insider elaborated further, saying: “For Alejandro Balde, in general, for his future, we have to see how the next three, four months will go because Balde obviously wants to play football, but Balde is in love with Barcelona.”
Romano continued: “For Balde, it is not easy to say to Barca, ‘I want to leave, I want to go.’ Balde never did that because Balde really, really loves Barcelona. So, it was Barca considering a possible exit for Financial Fair Play to get extra money, but only permanent — not loan.”
Barcelona are reported to value Balde at around €40 million, which converts to approximately £34.2 million, making any deal a significant financial commitment for a United side mindful of their spending.
Spanish outlet AS has suggested that should Balde fail to force his way back into the first-team picture, he may reconsider his position at the club ahead of the winter window.
Manchester United remain firmly focused on strengthening their left-back position when January arrives, and Balde continues to be viewed as a name to monitor closely.