Alejandro Balde Chooses to Leave Barcelona as Manchester United Begin Transfer Talks

Manchester United Pursues Alejandro Balde Amid Defensive Struggles

After a tough start to the Premier League season, Manchester United is intensifying efforts to strengthen its defense. The club has opened negotiations with the agent of Alejandro Balde, Jorge Mendes, aiming to bring the Barcelona left-back to Old Trafford this summer.

Red Devils’ Defense Needs Urgent Reinforcement

The team’s 2-0 loss to Hull City in their opening league match highlighted defensive weaknesses. While Manchester United is close to finalizing a £70 million deal for Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, attention has now shifted toward securing cover at left-back. Veteran Luke Shaw’s recent mistake underlined the urgent need for reinforcements before the transfer window closes.

Initially, the club targeted Newcastle’s Lewis Hall to solve their defensive problems, but Newcastle is not willing to part with the former Chelsea player. This forced Manchester United to explore other options, leading them to focus on Balde from Barcelona, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

Balde Decides to Exit Barcelona

Reports from Jijantes reveal that Alejandro Balde has decided to leave Barcelona. Despite being a La Masia product who played a key role in recent successes, Balde is uncertain about his future under coach Hansi Flick.

Last season, Balde started 21 league games but missed 10 due to hamstring and muscle injuries. The arrival of Joao Cancelo on a free transfer, marking his third stint at the club, has increased competition for the left-back spot. His agent, Jorge Mendes, is actively working to secure a move, with initial talks already underway with Manchester United.

Hansi Flick Comments on Balde’s Future

"He’s a player of immense quality, and it’s important to know if he’s confident he can compete in his position. That’s what I want to see from all my players. Every day I observe what they do, their level, whether they demonstrate that they’re at the level to play." – Hansi Flick

The Barcelona coach emphasized the importance of full commitment and collective effort. He added, "We have to play as a team; only then will we achieve success. I need everyone to be one hundred percent."

Transfer Window Remains Uncertain at Camp Nou

Barcelona is undergoing significant changes, and Flick did not rule out more departures. He mentioned the club’s ongoing structural shifts and the need to wait until the transfer window closes to understand the full impact on the squad.

"We’re making a lot of changes within the club, so we may have to wait until the transfer window closes. When you decide to bring in new players, you also have to consider how to strengthen the team. The situation has been made very clear to the players, and now we must wait until the end of the market to see what happens."