Contact made: Man Utd enter talks for 22yo Barcelona star with 92% passing
Manchester United have made an enquiry over the situation of Barcelona midfielder Alejandro Balde ahead of the summer transfer window, according to Mundo Deportivo.
The Red Devils are likely to reinforce the left-back department at the end of the season.
Luke Shaw has been an undisputed starter in the role under interim manager Michael Carrick this year, but he has a history of injuries. His workload has to be managed if United return to Europe.
Patrick Dorgu was signed as a potential deputy to the Englishman last year, but the former Lecce man has been vulnerable defensively. He is more comfortable operating as a winger.
A strong competitor is required for Shaw, and Mundo Deportivo claim that the Red Devils have made an enquiry over the availability of Balde at the end of the ongoing campaign.
Neither Barcelona nor Balde are contemplating a new challenge. However, it is claimed that a significant transfer offer could change the club’s stance given their financial situation.
That would still require the green light from the player. Both Barcelona and Balde are currently focused on sorting out a renewal. The Spaniard’s current deal expires in June 2028.
Balde speculation could be agent-driven
The 22-year-old has been a key player under Barcelona manager Hansi Flick. He has already made 34 appearances across all competitions this term, contributing three assists for the club.
Balde has been terrific with the ball at his feet and has completed 92 percent of his passes in La Liga. He has also won 60 percent of his duels, with 3.7 recoveries and 1.4 tackles per outing.
With his age and immense potential, Balde would be a brilliant acquisition for the Red Devils. He could easily displace Shaw to become an undisputed starter on the left side of defence.
However, we don’t believe a deal will materialise. Balde is clearly content at Barcelona, and the Spanish outfit are unlikely to sanction his sale unless United make an audacious offer, which may not happen.
United are more likely to prefer a cost-effective deal, as they may need to spend significantly in the midfield department. Manuel Ugarte could follow Casemiro through the exit door.
Meanwhile, Balde is represented by super-agent Jorge Mendes, who also manages Leny Yoro and Manuel Ugarte. He played a big part in bringing the duo to Old Trafford previously.
Mendes could be behind the speculation. He is probably using United as a negotiating tool to speed up contract talks with Barcelona over Balde before the end of the campaign.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com
Article written by Sri Aswin .