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Alejandro Balde gives Man United transfer boost as Barcelona exit looms
Manchester United are considering a loan with an option to buy after Balde was left out of Barcelona's squad and gave his agent permission to negotiate.
On Monday, August 24, 2026, Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde signaled his readiness to join Manchester United as the club prioritizes defensive reinforcements ahead of the transfer deadline.
Manchester United officials are prioritizing a new left-back to address depth issues, as concerns persist that defender Luke Shaw cannot sustain playing three matches weekly in the Premier League and Champions League.
Manager Hansi Flick omitted Balde from Barcelona's squad for Sunday's 5-0 win over Elche, telling the defender it was best he "cleared his mind" amid intense transfer speculation.
Balde has authorized his agent, Jorge Mendes, to open negotiations, as United views the 22-year-old as a cost-effective alternative to Newcastle United defender Lewis Hall, valued exceeding £68m.
With the summer transfer window closing at 11pm on September 1, United's hierarchy must finalize their defensive recruitment to strengthen the squad for the remainder of the season.