Manchester United still have room to sign Balde

After spending 83 million on Carlos Baleba, the English team still has 'cash' for the Barcelona full-back

Héctor Andreu | 26 Aug 2026 | 12.03
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Manchester United is still waiting for Balde / Crónica Global
Manchester United is still waiting for Balde / Crónica Global

Premier League
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Man Utd Ipswich
30/08/26 17:30:00
1.42 4.50 7.00

Alejandro Balde remains on Manchester United's agenda to strengthen the left-back position before the September 1st transfer deadline. The 22-year-old defender could leave FC Barcelona in this transfer window, with the deal revolving around 40-45 million euros, although the English club is also exploring other options.

Progress has been made as Balde was left out of the squad for Barcelona's LaLiga debut against Elche. Hansi Flick stated that he spoke with the player and asked him to clarify his situation, while Barça is open to a transfer during the final days of August.

Alejandro Balde emerges as an alternative to Lewis Hall

Manchester United is seeking to add a left-back after completing much of their summer planning. This position also has a medium-term need since Luke Shaw is 31 years old and entering the final year of his current contract.

The top target for the English club has been Lewis Hall, a 21-year-old left-back from Newcastle United. However, his club is reluctant to sell, with figures around 60 million euros or more being discussed to facilitate a transfer.

The cost disparity positions Alejandro Balde as a more viable alternative. Barcelona has indicated a valuation between 40 and 45 million euros, and recent reports from England suggest United would prefer an initial loan rather than bearing the full transfer cost.

Newcastle's stance could ultimately be decisive. Their coach, Matthias Jaissle, has stated that Hall is in his plans, reducing the chances of a sale and potentially prompting United to pursue Balde definitively.

United still interested in Balde

FC Barcelona opens the door to a sale

The scenario for Alejandro Balde has also shifted within FC Barcelona. His absence against Elche followed a conversation with Flick where the coach urged the full-back to regain focus before returning to first-team competition.

Balde is under contract until 2028 with a 1 billion euro release clause, but negotiations are possible for a significantly lower amount. Barça is willing to consider a transfer that provides financial flexibility in the late market phase.

Competition for the player extends beyond Manchester United. Benfica has shown interest with an offer around 20 million euros, considerably short of Barça's demands, while Aston Villa has also explored his situation this summer.

Manchester United has until September 1st

The English club's planning now enters its final stage. After investment in midfield and securing Carlos Baleba's arrival, the left-back position remains open for reinforcement before the deadline.

The next move heavily depends on Lewis Hall. If Newcastle maintains their refusal or demands an amount close to or exceeding 60 million, United will likely shift focus toward Barcelona.

September 1st marks the deadline to resolve Alejandro Balde's future. FC Barcelona anticipates an offer near their valuation, while Manchester United keeps the full-back as a prime option to finalize their squad before the market closes.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El United todavía tiene para fichar a Balde